Modern trends in the children’s national cinema development (on the example of fairy-tale films)

INTRODUCTION. The relevance of modern trends in Russian children’s cinema study is due to the need to comprehend its role in shaping the value orientations of the younger generation, as well as to analyze those strategies that allow Russian fairy-tale films to compete with global media products. In recent years, there has been a noticeable in the growing number of films being released, a variety of genre approaches, and the active use of new technologies. However, against the background of these changes, the question arises about national identity preservation, the balance between entertainment and educational functions, as well as how traditional fairy tales can be reinterpreted in a modern context. The aim is to identify and analyze the key trends determining the children’s national cinema development using the example of fairy tale films of recent years.
MATERIALS AND METHODS. The analysis of scientific literature and theoretical works on the problem under study, comparative analysis (classical and modern film adaptations), cultural approach and semiotic analysis of visual and narrative elements are used.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION. The research examines the following aspects: the themes’ and issues’ evolution, technological innovations, the influence of the socio-cultural context on the content and form of film productions, as well as the prospects for further development of the genre.
CONCLUSION. This study examines children’s cinema as an important tool for the socialization, education and cultural development of the younger generation. It is noted that the digital technologies’ development, changes in the socio-political environment and media preferences of young viewers require the adaptation of traditional forms of children’s cinema to new conditions. The research aims to identify and scientifically substantiate the main directions of the transformation of modern Russian children’s cinema using the example of film tales published in the period from 2017 to 2024. As a result of the study, it is found that modern Russian children’s cinema, considered on the example of film tales, has undergone a significant transformation relative to the Soviet period. Changes have occurred both at the production level and at the content consumption level. Producers of film stories have to find a balance between following the letter of classic plots and the audience’s habit of perceiving a dynamic, visually vivid, humor-based type of content. They draw attention to their product by creating unique worlds and characters through the abundant use of computer graphics. At the same time, they strive to expand the audience from children’s to family by focusing on the entertainment component of the stories offered, exploiting more universal themes and humor. The most noticeable trend in the adaptation of fairy tales is the computer graphics use. With its help, the expressive possibilities of cinema are expanded.