Background
Ioseliani, Otar was born on February 2, 1934.
Ioseliani, Otar was born on February 2, 1934.
Graduated from the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography in 1961 as a director under Aleksandr Dovzhenko and Mikhail Romm.
Distinguished Georgian director Originally trained as a conductor. Also graduated from the Tbilisi Conservatory as well as being a painter and graphic artist. For two years studied mechanics and mathematics at Moscow University.
Worked for a living as a sailor and miner. His films: April (1961, short film, not released until 1987), Listopad (When Leaves Fall). This film was completed in 1967 and became a huge success with Russian critics and the public.
Was shown during the Directors’ Fortnight at the 1972 Cannes Film Festival. Since then every film society in the world has acquired a copy. The film earned its maker the highest reputation.
His next film, There Was a Singing Blackbird, was a huge success with critics all over the world. Invited to make a film in France. Also works as a university lecturer.
Regarded as one of the leading contemporary directors in Georgia.