People Of Ar is an Armenian theater, film & television production and distribution company and the main namesake division of People Of Ar Foundation. We specialize in foreign large-scale productions wishing to shoot, finish and distribute films and TV shows in Armenia and around the Caucasus region.
With the top professionals in the country, we are experts in helping directors and producers get what they need creatively, at the same time saving them millions of dollars they would spend in Bucharest, Prague, Tbilisi, not to mention Europe or the US.
If your film can be shot geographically and creatively here, then we are the company to go into business with. We work very closely with the Parliament, the National Cinema Center, the Ministry of Culture, the National Film Academy, the National Philharmonic, and the National Radio.
Our entire team as well as partners are all the absolute best in their fields and all active members of the National Cinematographers Union.
The last three out of four films, officially selected by the National Academy of Armenia to represent the country in the 93rd, 94th, and 96th Academy Awards have been People of Ar and Ava Films productions.
Arman Nshanian has been in the business for 25 years. He holds two master’s degrees in Theater and Opera and is a member of the Actors Studio in NYC. He has directed dozens of theatrical productions with some of the largest theaters in and around the Caucasus region. Productions he has directed include “The odd couple” (Simon), “The prisoner of 2and ave.” (Simon), “Lost in Yonkers” (Simon), “A streetcar named Desire” (Williams), “A view from the bridge” (Miller), just to name a few.
When Mr. Nshanian has the time away from his theatrical projects, he turns his attention to film. As the founder and CEO of People of Ar Productions, and in working directly with the Prime Minister’s office as well as the Minister of Culture of Armenia, he has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives such as the new 40% tax rebate law that have redefined Armenian cinema and elevated it onto the global stage. His work often explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and social justice, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Arman is specialized in bridging foreign productions from around the world who wish to film large scale films in Armenia and its surrounding territories. Having worked in Hollywood for many years, he is fluent in providing the production needs for big budget films. Some of the films he’s helped bring to the region include “Vigilante Diaries” (Lions Gate/HBO), “Amerikatsi” (Variance/Amadeus) and “Songs of Solomon” which was produced by Nick Valellonga, the writer and producer of the academy award winning film “Green Book”.
Arman Nshanian is a visionary director and producer whose passion for storytelling has begun to leave an indelible mark on the world of film. He has embarked on a prolific career that has seen him helm numerous acclaimed projects across various genres.
In addition to his directorial and producorial achievements, Arman is also a passionate advocate for the arts, actively promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. Through his innovative storytelling and dedication to his craft, he continues to inspire and empower the next generation of filmmakers. Arman Nshanian’s creative vision and profound impact make him a true luminary in the world of cinema. Three of his last films have all been selected to represent Armenia at the Academy Awards, the latter of which, Amerikatsi has earned him a spot on the Oscars shortlist at the 96th Academy Awards for best foreign film.
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Ani Vorskanyan is the visionary founder behind AVA Films, which has rapidly ascended to become one of Armenia's most prestigious production companies. Under her leadership, AVA Films has carved out a significant niche in the international film festival circuit, boasting an impressive portfolio.
Among her notable achievements, Vorskanyan co-produced "Amerikatsi" (2022), a film that has garnered critical acclaim and was shortlisted for the upcoming Academy Awards. Additionally, her co-production "Si le vent tombe" ("Should the Wind Drop") was selected for the Official Selection of the 73rd Cannes Festival in 2020 and was featured in the ACID program, further solidifying her reputation as a producer with an exceptional ability to craft stories that captivate audiences and critics alike.
Vorskanyan's contributions to cinema, particularly through these distinguished films, underscore her role as a key figure in elevating Armenian filmmaking on the international stage.
Asko Akopyan is an influential figure in the film industry, known for his work as a producer on a variety of impactful films. His recent achievements include producing "Songs of Solomon," which was selected as Armenia's official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 93rd Academy Awards. Additionally, Akopyan produced the documentary "45 Days: The Fight for a Nation" (2021), which provides a deep dive into the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, showcasing his commitment to highlighting significant historical and cultural narratives through cinema.
With his production company Oscar Gold Productions, His work has not only contributed to the global recognition of Armenian cinema but also to the discourse on important social and political issues, marking him as a key player in bringing Armenian stories to the international stage.
Knarik Sargsyan is a highly accomplished movie line producer known for her exceptional organizational skills and ability to bring together all the elements necessary for successful film production. Hailing from the rich cultural heritage of Armenia and having graduated as a film director from the National Theatrical Institute of Armenia, Knarik has always been captivated by the magic of storytelling through the lens of a camera.
Working with highly experienced film makers has allowed her to hone her organizational and logistical skills while also providing invaluable support in the creation of each of People of Ar production projects. Knarik’s ability to anticipate the needs of the production has earned her recognition as an essential and trusted collaborator. She is dedicated to helping bring the vision of each film to fruition, ensuring that every aspect of the production runs smoothly and efficiently. Knarik's passion for the art of filmmaking and her collaborative approach make her an indispensable part of our company.
Vardan Hakobyan, based in Armenia, is a distinguished 1st AD, producer, and festival coordinator. He earned a degree in film directing from Armen Film Studio in 1999, augmenting his expertise by attending director Vigen Chaldranyan’s film directing classes from 2000 to 2002. In 2008, Vardan participated in the film school for the CIS and Baltic countries as a film director.
Since 1999, Vardan has been actively involved in professional filmmaking across diverse roles. He has notably excelled as an assistant director for more than 20 Armenian and international feature films and television shows. Additionally, he has produced multiple narrative short films and feature documentaries.
From 2007 to 2018, Vardan played a pivotal role at the Golden Apricot International Film Festival, serving as a co-founder and coordinator of the short film competition titled “Apricot Stone”.
Commencing in 2015, Vardan established collaborations with numerous television channels in Armenia, showcasing his versatility as a director for TV series, documentary films, and various TV productions.
Between 2018 and 2021, Vardan served as the Creative Director at Kinoket Production, significantly broadening his influence and contributions to the film industry.
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Andranik Berberyan is an esteemed Armenian movie composer, whose evocative scores have enriched the cinematic landscape with their emotional depth and cultural resonance. His impressive career and achievements as a film composer has spanned for over ten years. Born into a family of musicians, with an innate musical talent, Andranik embarked on his journey in the world of composition at a young age, graduating from the Komitas Conservatory of music where he mastered various instruments and immersed himself in the rich tapestry of Armenian music.
Throughout his illustrious career, Andranik has collaborated with over 30 renowned filmmakers, lending his musical prowess to a diverse range of projects spanning multiple genres. His ability to capture the essence of a story and infuse it with musical motifs that tug at the heartstrings has earned him widespread acclaim both at home and abroad.
From sweeping orchestral arrangements to haunting melodies, Andranik's scores possess a distinctive blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting his deep appreciation for Armenian culture while also pushing the boundaries of contemporary composition. Whether accompanying epic historical dramas or intimate character studies, his music serves as a powerful storytelling tool, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene and immersing audiences in the cinematic experience.
In addition to his work in film, Andranik is also a respected figure in the world of classical music, having composed numerous symphonies, concertos, and chamber works that have been performed by orchestras and ensembles around the world. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified his reputation as one of Armenia's most accomplished composers.
Having won numerous awards, including "Best Original Score" award at the "Anahit" National Film Awards in 2022, Andranik Berberyan's compositions continue to inspire and enchant audiences, transcending cultural boundaries and leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema and beyond. With each new composition, he continues to captivate listeners with his artistry and passion for storytelling through music.
Nerses Sedrakyan is esteemed as one of Armenia's premier production designers, whose artistic vision and meticulous attention to detail have significantly contributed to the film industry. His remarkable work on "Amerikatsi" (2022) not only showcased his exceptional ability to create immersive and authentic settings but also played a crucial role in the film's overall success and resonance with audiences.
Sedrakyan's talent in enhancing narrative through visual storytelling, cemented his status as a key figure in Armenian cinema. His contributions have not only elevated the productions he has worked on but also set a high standard for production design in the region.
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Viktoria Nshanian, a talented graphic designer, embarked on her creative journey at Yerevan’s Kojoyan Design Academy. After graduating in 2014 she then continued to hone her skills at one of the leading publishing houses in Armenia, Antares Media Holding, for several years.
Today she’s an integral part of People of Ar Productions, where everyday she collaborates closely with the founder and CEO, rendering unwavering support for the company’s vision. With a keen eye for detail and a flair for storytelling, Viktoria brings her artistic talents to the forefront, crafting compelling decks, posters, promotional materials and is a crucial cog in the creative development from conception to finish.
David Banuchyan is a skilled film producer, photographer, and entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in the entertainment industry. His work includes producing documentaries for TV networks and contributing to the development of the Armenian film industry. David is passionate about supporting filmmakers and fostering creativity in the industry. He played a crucial role in creating film laws and cash rebate programs, shaping the industry in Armenia.
Narek Martirosyan is an Armenian cinematographer with a background in cinematography for cinema and television, having graduated from the Armenian State Pedagogical University, Faculty of Culture, Department of Cinematography for Cinema and Television, in 2005. He began his career working at local TV companies as a cameraman for documentary films between 2003 and 2005. Since 2007 he has been involved in film production, working on commercials, shorts, documentaries, and feature projects.
Martirosyan is a member of the Armenian Cinematographers Guild and the International Federation of Cinematographers.
The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia (MoESCS) is the Armenian state body of executive authority, which elaborates and implements the policies set out by the Government of Armenia in the education, science, culture, sports and youth policy sectors.
National Cinema Center of Armenia is a state funding body which supports Armenian film industry at the key stages of the film production, including script development, production, promotion and distribution with particular attention paid to international co-productions.
It also aims to contribute to the promotion of Armenian cinema and to foster new artistic accomplishments and acknowledgement of Armenian filmmakers worldwide.
The Armenian National Film Academy was founded in 2011. The main aim of the Academy is to promote and support film production in our country. Being a non-governmental organization, it unites people with a significant contribution to cinematography and filmmaking. The activity is aimed at presenting the rich Armenian heritage of the film and contributing to the present-day promotion of the sector.
The Union of Film Professionals of Armenia (UFPA) is the successor of the Union of Cinematographers of Armenia, founded in 1957 in the Soviet Union. Today, the UFPA is a public association of citizens of the RA and foreign countries, stateless persons and/or legal entities (with the status of a non-commercial organization), which unites, in accordance with the law, professional filmmakers, on the basis common interests, on the principle of volunteerism, individual membership.
Founded by a former health care mogul Asko Akopian, Oscar Gold Productions is a production company based in Hollywood, that has produced numerous feature films, securing worldwide distribution deals for every single one of them, some of which include Vigilante Diaries (HBO), Oxenfree (Screen Media), Mind Blown (Sci-Fi Channel/LIONSGATE), Doomsday Device (LIONSGATE) and the pilot Unorganized Crime directed by Nick Vallelonga, starring Chazz Palminteri, and Songs of Solomon, directed by Arman Nshanian, which is also produced by Nick Vallelonga, the two time Academy Award winning writer and producer of Green Book. Songs of Solomon was Armenia’s official selection for the 93rd Academy Awards.
“AVA Films” Production Company was founded in the beginning of 2021. Its aim is to use the full potential of the Armenian film industry in the complex process of filmmaking, which also develops the film industry in Armenia. The Company focuses mostly on the co-production of independent feature, documentary and short films with Europe, Western Asia and USA.
Berberyan Production Studios stands at the forefront of the film music industry in Armenia, offering a large range of services that encompass the full spectrum of film music and sound post-production for motion pictures.
The leading nonprofit organization that unites and champions Armenian films and filmmakers.
Public Radio of Armenia is a public radio broadcaster in Armenia. It was established in 1926 and remains one of the largest broadcasters in the country, with at least three national networks. The agency also has the country's largest sound archives, four orchestras, and participates in cultural preservation programs.
Public Television of Armenia, also known as AMPTV or ARMTV, is an Armenian public television station that began transmissions in 1956.
Golden Apricot International Film Festival is one of the most important events of Yerevan's cultural life. Every year Golden Apricot brings to Armenia the best of the World's art-house films.
The Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in March, 1925 as a symphony orchestra of the Yerevan Conservatory, later serving as a basis for all symphonic orchestras of Armenia. The founder and first conductor of ANPO was the Rector of Conservatory Arshak Adamyan, with participation and support of the renowned composer Alexander Spendiarian.
Currently, the ANPO is a national center of professional orchestral music in Armenia. Since the year 2000, the Armenian National Philharmonic Orchestra is led by Maestro Eduard Topchjan and is committed to promoting cultural and musical awareness among the local audience by performing regular concerts of classical and operatic music, in addition to national and contemporary music.
“Cinema Star” company was founded in 2005. 13 years later “Cinema Star” cinema chain grows fast and expands geographically. Today the cinemas are located in 16 cities in Russia and Armenia. Chain includes 26 cinemas, 138 digital halls, where 16480 people can watch movies at the same time. Cinema Star is among Russia’s top 6 operators. The network’s digital cinema halls are equipped with Christie projectors, Dolby Digital Surround EX sound reproduction system, 3D Master Image system and light-efficient silver screens. Many cinemas are equipped with multi-channel sound system Dolby Atmos, which allows you to revive what is happening on the screen and create a powerful and rich sound.
KinoPark is a new generation movie theater, which provides 4K ULTRA HD quality projectors, DOLBY ATMOS quality sound, 6 comfortable halls with the best technology, 3D movies in all 6 halls, Premium Hall, Friendly and pleasant atmosphere.
On December 12,1936 the opening of "Moscow" cinema with the screening of “Pepo” the first armenian sound movie took place. For modern “Yerevantsi” it is difficult to imagine, that instead of the building of the cinema there once used to be St. Paul and Peter Church,and there was a Russian Churchinstead of Stanislavski Theatre, and in the neighborhood of all this there was a mosque instead of the Union of Artists.Over time, the reconstruction of the city totally destroyed the magnificent architectural designs which were being built for over16 centuries, especially after the victory of Bolshevism and the "Cultural Revolution". Among them was also St. Paul and Peter Church.In the 1930s the church was destroyed. Instead of it the building of the cinema was built, afterwards called "Moscow". The architects of the building were Tiran Yerkanian and Gevorg Kochar. After the construction of the building it has been reconstructed many times, in 1960 by the design project of Gevorg Kochar and Telman Gevorgyan, in 1983, by the architects B.Arzumanyan, Z.Zakaryan, A.Israyelyan, A. Melikyan. The facade of the building is decorated with the symbolic sculptures of well-known Soviet films "Chapaev", "Pepo", "Davit Bek", "Sayat-Nova" "Dancing" and "Stage". After the privatization of the cinema it was closed for a year and reopened in September, 2000. The fountain next to the cinema was renovated and reopened in 2010.
All the necessary gear needed to film documentaries, shorts and features, etc. Whole new arsenal of film equipment considering the needs and demands of the market.
