American director Woody Allen is set to be the focal point of the film festival organized by the Moscow Mayor’s Office, which kicks off this weekend, according to event organizers.

The 89-year-old filmmaker, who has won the Oscar four times, is announced as the principal guest of honor for the Moscow International Film Week, running from August 23 to 27. Russian media indicate that he will participate remotely instead of attending in person.

Established in 2024, the festival includes film screenings, lectures, and business discussions designed to position Moscow as a key destination for filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts worldwide.

Allen is expected to lead the “Legends of World Cinema” segment at Moskino’s studio on Sunday, as noted by the city’s Department of Culture. Russian filmmaker Fyodor Bondarchuk will facilitate the discussion.

“Woody Allen, whose films have become iconic representations of cultural milestones and auteur cinema, will engage with Russian audiences in this format for the first time,” states the festival’s official website. It portrays the session as a “lecture-dialogue,” focusing on insights into cinema and life, as well as themes of choice, inspiration, and integrity in the creative field.

Additional notable guests will include American actor and martial artist Marc Dacascos, along with pro-Kremlin Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica, as per the organizers’ statements.

Allen’s representative has yet to provide a comment regarding the event.