Judi Dench pulls out of Russian film festival in London amid tension

  • The Oscar-winnersaid she would not attend the Soichi International Film Festival
  • Event was set up by Russia to foster stronger cultural ties with foreign countries
  • Last year festival organisers awarded Dame Judi a best actress award for her role as Queen Victoria 

Dame Judi Dench (pictured) has pulled out of the Soichi International Film Festival

Dame Judi Dench has pulled out of making an appearance at a Russian film festival gala due to be held in London.

The 83-year-old actor was billed as the star guest for the Sochi International Film Festival which will take place at the Soho hotel.

But in the wake of increasing tensions between Britain and Russia, the Oscar-winner told organisers by email she would be unable to attend.

A spokesperson for the festival claimed Dame Judi’s decision had not been influenced by recent events, including the tit-for-tat expulsion of diplomats.

The festival was set up three years ago as an independent platform to showcase films and improve relations between Russia and other countries, told the Sunday People.

The first two events were held in the Black Sea resort of Sochi – the location of the 2014 Winter Olympics and one of Putin’s holiday homes.

This year it is to be held in London in a deliberate attempt to foster stronger cultural relations between the two countries.

Russian Ambassador Alexander Yakovenko (pictured) was also scheduled to appear but this now looks unlikely

Russian Ambassador Alexander Yakovenko (pictured) was also scheduled to appear but this now looks unlikely

Cultural diplomatic staff from both countries working at the embassy are still expected to attend – but it is unlikely Russian Ambassador Alexander Yakovenko will make an appearance.

Luba Balgova, founder and president, said: ‘Our festival aims to dispel the grey colours of fear, cold war and mistrust, to cast the sunshine of Sochi to bring people together through the shared language of cinema.’

Last year festival organisers awarded Dame Judi a best actress award for her role as Queen Victoria in the box office hit. 



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