Baku Premiere of “Sermon into the Void” Celebrates Azerbaijani Cinema

The highly anticipated premiere of the film “Sermon into the Void” took place in Baku on December 7, 2025. Supported by the Azerbaijan Film Agency (ARKA) under the Ministry of Culture, the screening was part of the OIC Culture Festival: Baku Creative Week – 2025 and the Baku Cinema Breeze international film programme.

Director Hilal Baydarov addressed the audience at the event, sharing insights into the film’s creative vision and production journey. He highlighted the film’s participation in prestigious international festivals, including the Venice International Film Festival, the Tokyo International Film Festival, and the Cairo International Film Festival. Baydarov noted that these screenings have significantly enhanced the visibility of Azerbaijani cinema on a global scale.

The premiere attracted a diverse audience, including members of the film’s creative team, representatives from state institutions, local and international film experts, and media figures. The film received an enthusiastic response from attendees, reflecting the growing interest in Azerbaijani storytelling and film production.

Baydarov expressed gratitude to the Azerbaijan Film Agency for their support throughout the film’s development. The director’s acknowledgment of the agency underscores the collaborative efforts that contribute to the success of national cinema.

“Sermon into the Void” was previously showcased in the “Out of Competition” section at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival and competed in the main program at both the Tokyo International Film Festival and the Cairo International Film Festival. These international appearances have played a crucial role in promoting the film and the broader Azerbaijani film industry.

As the film continues its journey on the international stage, its premiere in Baku marks a significant milestone for local filmmakers and highlights Azerbaijan’s commitment to cultural representation in cinema. The success of “Sermon into the Void” may pave the way for future projects that further elevate the visibility of Azerbaijani narratives in the global film landscape.