Authors

Maria Grigoryeva¹;  ¹ University of Helsinki, Finland

Discussion

This research project delves into the problems of national self-identity, culture, and challenges faced by two distinct yet interrelated 'imaginary' ethnic and religious groups - the Rodnovertsy and Meryans. These groups, seemingly at odds with each other, offer contrasting perspectives on identity and tradition problems in Russia. The Rodnovertsy, a Neo-Pagan group with close ties to Slavic nationalism, stands in juxtaposition to the Meryans, who draw inspiration from an extinct Finno-Ugric tribe and aspire to revive ancient Finno-Ugric and other non-imperial traditions in Russia, regardless of nationality, religion, etc. Both groups rely solely on contemporary sources to shape their traditions. In this context, cinema is a potent medium for dissecting these communities' intricacies, challenges, and commonalities.

This study analyses two cinematic works that portray the cultures of the Rodnovertsy and Meryans: "The Clearing" and "Time Of Darkness" (1991, dir. Vadim Alenikov), as well as "The Silent Souls" (2010, dir. Aleksei Fedorchenko). This examination is complemented by supporting literature, social media content, and interviews conducted with representatives of these groups. The central assertion of this paper is that these films serve as reflections of the struggles encountered by ethnic and religious minority groups within Russia despite their divergent approaches and messaging.


These films depict the nationalist and intercultural resistance against imperialism and the Orthodox Church's dominance in ancient or contemporary Russia. Ultimately, these films illuminate opposing viewpoints on a shared challenge: the crisis of identity and national traditions in the post-Soviet landscape.

Keywords: film, self-identity, visual anthropology, film studies, neo-pagans, Meryans, Russian film.