by Last weekend, the Wellington Russian Club held a family screening of The Wizard of the Emerald City (2025), a modern adaptation of Alexander Volkov’s classic fairy tale. The film brought together both adults and children and became a warm and joyful conclusion to September.
The story reminded viewers of simple but important values: kindness, honesty, courage, and the ability to support one another. The journey of Ellie, Toto, and their companions highlights that true friendship can work wonders, and that in difficult moments it is essential to remain sincere and to listen to those who care for us — parents and teachers.
The screening was accompanied by English subtitles, allowing our New Zealand friends to enjoy Volkov’s magical world and watch this heartfelt story with pleasure.
After the film, a small musical performance took place: Vladimir Zvegintsev played the accordion and performed songs from the animated adaptation of the same story. The children listened with genuine interest and soon began dancing and singing along, creating a warm and lively atmosphere.
Following club tradition, guests enjoyed a small shared table after the screening. Viewers brought pies, biscuits, fruit, and other homemade treats. Everyone talked, exchanged impressions, and simply enjoyed each other’s company — adding a special sense of warmth and completeness to the evening.
The screening also became part of the Club’s cultural programme aimed at introducing New Zealand audiences to Russian literature, music, and family cinema.
