A prominent Russian actor and director, he gained fame for his role in Andrei Tarkovsky's "Ivan's Childhood" (1962). Born in Moscow, he studied at the Gerasimov Institute of Cinematography. His career includes notable performances in films like "Andrei Rublev" (1966) and "The Ascent" (1977). Transitioning into directing, he focused on themes of spirituality and Russian history. He served as the head of the Russian Orthodox film festival, fostering cultural and religious cinema.