Actor Sergey Mitryushin: Russians lack an understanding of cultural values and the instinct for growth.

What distinguishes Ukrainians from Russians? Should we dismantle monuments to cultural figures and rename streets? What challenges does the Ukrainian film industry face today? Why have only a few Russian actors condemned the war? Answers to these and other pressing questions were provided by actor Sergey Mitryushin in an interview with RBK-Ukraine.

Sergey Mitryushin is a Ukrainian theater and film actor from Kharkiv. Performances featuring him always draw full houses, his series become favorites for hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians, and his colleagues note that working with Sergey is a pleasure due to his sense of humor and humanity, which are truly valued today.

Very soon, the long-awaited series "Kohannya ta polum'ya" will premiere on the STB channel, where Mitryushin has one of the leading roles. Ahead of the premiere, RBK-Ukraine spoke with the actor about his on-screen character, the DShV, trips to Russia, the "canonization" of Bulgakov, Ukrainization, the state of Ukrainian cinema, and, of course, his personal life.

– The series "Kohannya ta polum'ya" is coming out soon on STB, in which you play one of the leading roles. Tell us about your character and his key traits.

– My character is Maksym Petrovych, a man with a complicated life story. He is 37 years old, born and raised in Cherkasy. Maksym is divorced and has a 15-year-old son, Artem, who lives with his ex-wife, so they rarely see each other. By profession, he is a paramedic, with relevant education and great professionalism. Although Maksym is quite reserved and prefers not to talk about his personal life, this does not prevent him from being a master of his craft - a person who can save others even in the most challenging circumstances.

The war has taken on special significance in Maksym's life. At that time, he was a combat medic, and after being injured, he decided to dedicate himself to service in the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (GSChS). This transition from fighting on the front lines to saving civilians demonstrates his inner strength and dedication to his calling.

– What intrigued you most about this character that made you want to take on this role?

- Above all, his depth and complexity. Maksym embodies quiet self-sacrifice, professionalism, and the ability to endure even after the hardest losses. Additionally, it was especially honorable for me to take on this role since my cousin works in the GSChS. I have always been proud of him, and this role has become a unique expression of respect for him and everyone who saves lives.

– What do you have in common with your on-screen character?

– The first thing that attracted me to my character was his love for cooking. Like Maksym, I also love to cook. For both of us, this process is not just a routine task but a way to find harmony and express ourselves. Another shared trait is a love for silence and nature. Maksym, like me, would prefer a walk in the forest over a noisy party without hesitation. And, of course, our personalities are quite similar: restraint, a tendency for self-reflection, and the ability to remain calm in difficult situations. I believe these traits helped me better understand my character and portray him as sincerely as possible on screen.

– I know that the actors regularly consulted with GSChS professionals who were present on set. How did you prepare for the role of a rescuer? Were there any special trainings?

– I didn’t undergo any special training before filming, but my preparation for the role was quite thorough. We studied all the important aspects of working with equipment and techniques directly on set under the guidance of professional firefighters. Their presence and support were invaluable - they not only helped us understand the technical nuances but also shared their own experiences, which added depth to my character. Additionally, before filming began, I familiarized myself with a firefighter's handbook to better understand the specifics of this profession. This helped me portray the image of a rescuer more realistically on screen.

– What funny or unpredictable situations occurred during filming?

– The most interesting and simultaneously amusing day of filming for me was the firefighting relay. It was hot, and we were competing against professional firefighters while fully equipped. We ran with fire hoses, sprayed targets with water, jumped over barriers, dragged mannequins weighing about 80 kilograms, and even used a storm ladder. The funniest moment was the expressions on the firefighters' faces when they realized this was not just a single run but would involve many takes, turning the day into a real marathon.

– What was the most interesting and the most challenging part?

– The most challenging moment in the project was filming in Borodyanka, in a destroyed building. This scene was based on real events, and being in such a place was incredibly emotionally difficult. My heart ached at the realization of the scale of the tragedy and the number of lives lost there. These feelings left a deep mark on my soul.

On the other hand, the most interesting aspect for me was working with the director (Vitaliy Kuksa - Ed.). His professionalism, creativity, and ability to inspire made the filming process unforgettable. He helped each of us better understand our characters and created an atmosphere in which we wanted to give our all to the role.

– Together with Maksym Ryahin, you joined the "Friends of the DShV" project. Explain: what is this project and why is it important?

– "Friends of the DShV" is a unique project created in collaboration with the Command of the Air Assault Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The initiator and general information partner is the StarLight Media group. The project's goal is to provide systematic support both for the DShV as a whole and for individual assault brigades.

The project has created a platform that allows everyone to contribute help - both through monthly donations and one-time contributions. All collected funds go directly to the account of the Air Assault Forces. In this way, Ukrainians from all over the country can support 13 assault brigades that perform critically important tasks on the front lines daily.

This project is extremely important as it helps ensure uninterrupted financial support for our defenders who risk their lives to protect our country. Joining "Friends of the DShV" is an opportunity to express gratitude and support for those who stand guard over our freedom every day.

– Before the invasion, you acted in series with Russian actors. Why do you think only a few of them condemned the war?

– Before the full-scale invasion, I only participated in one project - "Frantsuzhenka dlya oligarkha". In that project, there was a Russian actor, but we hardly interacted off set. He had his own star wagon, and all communication with him was limited to working on camera.

Regarding why only a few Russian actors condemned the war, I think there are several reasons. Some are afraid of losing their careers, others their freedom, and perhaps even their lives. But what hurts the most is the realization that many of them actually support what is happening or simply do not care. This is disappointing, as cultural figures should be the voice of truth and conscience in their country.

– Do you currently maintain contact with any Russians?

– No, I do not maintain contact with any Russian acquaintances or former colleagues. In the context of the war initiated by Russia, this is a principled issue for me. I cannot and do not want to communicate with those who remain indifferent to our tragedy or support aggression. At this time, all my energy, thoughts, and actions are directed towards supporting Ukraine and those who are fighting for our freedom and independence.

Sergey Mitryushin (photo provided by the actor)

– By the way, long before the full-scale invasion, you visited the depths of Russia. Tell us, what were your impressions of the Russians? What struck you then about their behavior and daily life compared to Ukraine and Ukrainians?

– Yes, I indeed visited the depths of Russia a long time ago... There are many things to compare. But the main thing I noticed is the lack of a deep understanding of cultural values and a development instinct. Many of them seem cowardly, uncultured, with a limited worldview. Compared to Ukraine and Ukrainians, this was particularly striking. We have always been more open, proactive, and ready for change and development. And this is what makes us strong as a nation - our ability for self-awareness, improvement, and striving for a better future.

– You served in the Kharkiv Academic Drama Theater when it was still named after Pushkin. Are you "for" erasing such names from the titles of institutions, streets, etc. (despite the popularity and possibly