Giorgi Shengelaia facts for kids

Giorgi Shengelaia (Georgian: გიორგი შენგელაია; Russian: Гео́ргий Никола́евич Шенгела́я; 11 May 1937 – 17 February 2020) was a famous film director from Georgia and the former Soviet Union. He was also a talented writer and actor. Over his career, he directed 14 films, creating many memorable stories for the big screen.

Giorgi Shengelaia's work was recognized around the world. His film Pirosmani, which tells the story of the great Georgian artist Niko Pirosmanishvili, won a major award called the Grand Prize at the Chicago International Film Festival in 1974. This film became very popular internationally. Later, in 1985, his film The Journey of a Young Composer earned him the Silver Bear for Best Director at the 36th Berlin International Film Festival, which is a very important award in the film world.

His Life and Family

Giorgi Shengelaia was born in Moscow, which was then part of the Russian SFSR, on May 11, 1937. His parents were also famous in the film industry. His mother was Nato Vachnadze, a well-known actress, and his father was Nikoloz Shengelaia, a respected film director. Growing up in a family of artists likely inspired his own path in filmmaking.

Giorgi Shengelaia passed away on February 17, 2020, in Tbilisi, Georgia. He left behind a wonderful collection of films that continue to be enjoyed by many.

His Films and Achievements

Giorgi Shengelaia started his career in film in 1961. He was involved in many movies, sometimes as a director, sometimes as a writer, and sometimes as an actor.

Notable Films

• Pirosmani (1969): This film is about the life of Niko Pirosmanishvili, a self-taught Georgian painter. It's known for its beautiful, poetic style. The film helped introduce Pirosmani's art to a wider audience and won the Grand Prize at the Chicago International Film Festival.
• Melodies of Vera Quarter (1973): This is a musical comedy that became very popular in Georgia. It's known for its lively songs and dances.
• The Journey of a Young Composer (1984): This film tells the story of a young man's adventures. It earned Giorgi Shengelaia the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin International Film Festival, showing his skill in guiding actors and telling a story.

Giorgi Shengelaia also directed other films like Matsi Khvitia (1966) and Khareba and Gogia (1987). He continued to make films until 2005, leaving a lasting impact on Georgian and Soviet cinema. His work often explored themes of art, history, and the lives of ordinary people.