Logline

The film Narekatsi is dedicated to the life, works, and legacy of Saint Gregory of Narek, the Doctor of the Universal Church. It explores his universal masterpiece, delves into his philosophical and theological thought, and sheds light on the phenomenon of the school of Narek.

Film distribution plan

The documentary film project Narekatsi is set to be screened in various countries worldwide. Our goal is to present it at prestigious universities and libraries, fostering discussions with the scientific community. Additionally, the film will be submitted to international spiritual film festivals and showcased in Armenia as well as in Diaspora communities.

What problem does the film solve?

In Armenia, it may seem that everyone is familiar with Grigor Narekatsi, but in reality, the understanding of his works remains quite superficial, often allowing for the spread of anti-scientific interpretations. This film seeks to uncover the true depth of Narekatsi’s philosophy, theological thought, and the intricate language and allegories within his works. Although Grigory of Narek has been recognized by the Rome Pope as a Doctor of the Universal Church, his philosophy remains largely confined to spiritual and academic circles. However, the profound wisdom and divine language of this saint should be accessible to all, regardless of religious beliefs, age, or background.

Purpose

The film aims to challenge and counter all anti-scientific claims that have been mistakenly linked to Grigory of Narek and his works. Additionally, it seeks to popularize Grigory of Narek, highlighting the richness of Armenian philosophical, theological, and literary thought that thrived even in the Medieval Ages.

Through this film, we will uncover the profound layers of Grigory of Narek’s linguistic mastery, the symbolic codes within the Book of Lamentations, his use of allegory, and his extraordinary grace in taking upon himself the sins of humanity.

Team

Ruzanna Ghazaryan

Producer, author

The producer and author of the film is Ruzanna Ghazaryan. With years of experience collaborating with various Armenian television companies, she has authored and hosted the program Armenian Trace, through which she explored Armenian communities in Syria, Lebanon, Cyprus, Jordan, Poland, the United Kingdom, and beyond.

As part of the 90th anniversary of Academician Paris Herouni, she directed the biographical film Herouni, dedicated to the renowned scientist. Currently, Ruzanna is working on three documentary films.

Lilit Mkhitaryan

Director

Lilit Mkhitaryan is a female filmmaker based in Armenia. With a degree in Art and Culture, she has over 6 years of working experience as a director of short documentaries and video stories at Associated Press, Chai-Khana Media Platform, VOA, SRF, ORF, NOS, Kika, and made commercials for UNICEF Armenia and EU Armenia. With her projects Lilit participated in various workshops and film industry platforms; EurasiaDoc Armenia, CineDoc Tbilisi Mentoring Program, Vilnius Meeting Point Talent's Lab, EurasiaDoc co-production market, GAIFF Pro industry platform, Close Up Cohort. In 2024, Lilit's documentary project "We Won Through Living" won the Best Documentary Award at the Pomegranate Film Festival.

Armen Chagharyan

Editing director

Armen Chagharyan has 15 years of experience as an editor and editing director. He has worked as an editing director with Domino Production, directed the "Archimedia" program series for the Public Television Company, and collaborated for many years with film director Jivan Avetisyan. Throughout his career, he has contributed to numerous international projects.

The film’s advisor is Archbishop Khajak Parsamyan, the representative of the Armenian Apostolic Church in the Holy See and the Patriarchal Delegate for Western Europe, who has guided the project in the right direction.

Bugdet

The total budget for the campaign is 3,000,000 AMD.

In the first phase, we aim to raise 530,000 AMD for filming in the Vatican Gardens.

In the second phase, we plan to raise 500,000 AMD for two filming sessions in Armenia.

For the third phase, we will raise 700,000 AMD to cover post-production work, including editing, sound editing, and dubbing.

In the third phase, the remaining 700000 AMD will be allocated for staff payments.

We plan to use the funds from this round for the film trailer, organizing a presentation in Armenia, designing posters, and covering PR and SMM expenses. Our goal is to raise 570,000 AMD.

You can find the detailed project budget here.

Question - Why support the documentary film project "Narekatsi"?

Answer - In today's chaotic world, the dissemination and preservation of spiritual and cultural values are crucial. The film Narekatsi aims to contribute to this by highlighting the enduring significance of these values.

Question - Where did the idea of making a film about Grigory of Narek come from?

Answer - The prevalence of anti-scientific thesis regarding the life and work of Grigory of Narek in mainstream narratives motivated us to create this film. By collaborating with genuine researchers, Armenologists, and theologians, we seek to dispel the myths surrounding this saint and offer a more accurate portrayal of his legacy.