Russian-born Macau-based director, Maxim Bessmertny is a graduate of NYU Tisch School of The Arts with an MFA in Film Production. His latest narrative short film Tricycle Thief had its World Premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, won the 2015 Kodak Gold Award for ‘Best Short Film’ and has played at numerous festivals worldwide. Maxim is now finishing his thesis film Sampan and preparing for a feature set to begin in the next few years.
Whatís your idea of a perfect day?
It would be good to do something out of the ordinary on a Monday.
If you could go back in time to any event in history, what would it be?
With the necessary armor and vaccines: the Renaissance in Italy during the 1500s or the Roaring 20s in New York.
Whatís your favorite book?
A Little History of the World by Ernest Gombrich. I’ve never read anything like it.
And your favorite film director?
Fellini, Fellini and Fellini.
Who is your hero?
Anyone who can help me install a new roof at home.
What can always cheer you up when you are having a bad day?
Comedy Club. An improv comedy show with a real live audience.
Whatís your worst habit?
Scrutinizing a text message.
If you could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Dumplings.
If you could retire tomorrow what would you do?
I’ve been blessed and lucky enough to follow the path of filmmaking from which there is no retirement.
Whatís your favourite season or festival?
Orthodox New Year – an extended celebratory period in Russia involving snow, booze and saunas in no particular order.
Whatís your favourite place in Macau?
Anywhere calm but not too far from the sea.
