Sea Sons (2026)

"Sea Sons" (Russian: Leto budet obshchim) is a Russian drama film directed by Daniil Merkulov, which premiered at the Shanghai International Film Festival on June 14, 2026. The narrative follows three young men who embark on a journey toward an ambiguous goal, driven by a desire to recapture a forgotten scent from their past. Their trip is characterized by a blend of mythological reflection and the mundane interruptions of reality, creating a tone that has been compared to the atmospheric style of Setouchi Inland Sea cinema.

The film features a cast including Mark Bogatyrev, Victoria Butsky, Sergey Chonishvili, and Oleg Yershov. It is shot in a distinctive 4:3 black-and-white format, emphasizing a minimalist and contemplative visual aesthetic. The story explores themes of brotherhood, existential searching, and the transition from youthful idealism to the constraints of adult life, using the road trip structure to delve into the characters' internal landscapes rather than external action.

• The film was selected for the Shanghai International Film Festival in 2026, marking a significant international showcase for this independent Russian production.
• Daniil Merkulov utilizes a static camera and natural lighting to enhance the raw, documentary-like feel of the actors' performances.
• The screenplay focuses heavily on dialogue and philosophical musings about ancient myths, contrasting them with the characters' awkward interactions with modern society.
• The title translates to "The Summer Will Be Common," suggesting a theme of shared human experience despite individual isolation.