A Film About Nazik Avdalyan is Being Made

Journalist and director Suren Areents is preparing to shoot a film about the world champion in weightlifting, Nazik Avdalyan. The journalist had informed about the idea through his Facebook page just days ago, and yesterday it became known that the concept is turning into reality, with shooting already starting, and the project symbolizing "The Power of Woman" will soon appear on screens.

“To be honest, the idea for such a project has been around for a long time, through which we will present not only our Armenian sportswomen but also the queens who are wonderful embodiments of female strength. Recently, we have seen a great deal of activity online, and the public is worried that a film is not being made about our other female athletes. I also thought that concern is justified; yes, it is possible to make a film about Nazik Avdalyan, who embodies family, a strong woman, and sports,” said Suren Areents in an interview with Aysor.am.

The director emphasizes that no one should look for a political subtext in this, and the film is not being created in contrast to the film "Mel." They have no intention of presenting a film against the other film. Rather, through their work, they will showcase the image of an Armenian woman who can be strong, possess willpower, while also having a family with a spouse and children.

Suren Areents has not yet met with Nazik Avdalyan but has spoken about the topic via the internet. He mentions that her presence during the filming will not always be necessary since the film is documentary. “Unfortunately, at the moment, she has some health issues. In a few days, when she recovers, we will definitely meet. I don’t think there will be any problems; she is one of those rare open athletes who have always participated with love in all the shoots... In any case, the initial feedback was positive, and after sending the script to her, we will discuss it,” Areents noted.

The film will be shot with the resources of Areents’ own production company, "Areents Production," as well as with the help of those who wish to contribute to the creation of this film. He emphasizes that funding should not constrain a person; if the idea is good, supporters will emerge. “My company will cover the initial funding to gather the team. Many have already expressed their support online. I am open to cooperation. I will start directing, but if the team suggests another director who can do the job better than me, I will gladly step aside for them. At this moment, there isn’t a director’s proposal, but there is a suggestion from a screenwriter, and several companies are ready to provide equipment for free... You know, speaking in numbers, naturally, the film requires significant financing, but if we wait for that funding, no films will be made in Armenia. We are hopeful that supporters will emerge, but in any case, this film will be shot, regardless of whether there will be investors or not. And it will not be a film meant for just a few people to gather and watch, but rather it is meant to present to the world,” he emphasized.

Suren Areents is also prepared to apply to the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports for state funding for the project.