Obituary of Vladimir M Osherov

"Vladimir "Vlad" Osherov, a luminary in the world of Soviet cinema and a writer in his twilight years, left us on September 15, 2023. Born in Moscow on April 22, 1940, to Yelena Schlossberg and Michael Osherov, Vlad's life was dynamic and vivid.

Vlad's talent transcended geographical and artistic boundaries. As a distinguished 1963 graduate of VGIK, the USSR's premier film academy, he garnered widespread acclaim in his native Russia before extending his cinematic mastery to Australia and the United States. In the twilight of his career, he pivoted to the literary world, authoring several books and leaving behind an almost-completed 600-page memoir.

Vlad's Christian faith was the bedrock of his life, guiding his decision to emigrate from Soviet Russia alongside his wife, Olga. A survivor of Communist rule, he held freedom and privacy in the highest regard.

Vlad had the privilege of collaborating with iconic directors such as Nikita Mikhalkov, Aleksandr Surin, Marlen Khutsiev, and Mark Zakharov. His circle of friends included renowned Russian writers, artists, poets, and filmmakers, and his early life was filled with adventures that easily rivaled scenes from a movie.

Contrary to his own self-deprecating claims of laziness, Vlad was a workhorse in the realm of filmmaking. His passion for shaping light and composing scenes was not only his vocation but also his avocation. This zeal extended to mentoring the next generation, notably inspiring his daughter Polina in her own photographic journey. He also shared his expertise as a cinematography instructor at NYU Tisch Film and TV School.

A man of simple yet refined tastes, Vlad enjoyed vodka, fine chocolate, jazz music, Russian literature, and spirited political debates.

Equipped with a razor-sharp wit and a legendary knack for creatively stringing together Russian expletives, he lived by the credo, "Never, ever, ever give up." This resilience saw him outlive many of his peers, a fact that never ceased to amaze him.

From the moment one met Vlad, it was impossible not to be charmed. He radiated a rare blend of kindness, humility, and affability that endeared him to all. The sparkle in his blue eyes revealed not just a keen sense of humor but also a profound self-awareness that resonated with many and was cherished by his family and friends.

Above all, Vlad was a devoted family man. He leaves behind his loving wife Olga, daughter Polina, son-in-law Ben, and granddaughters Natasha and Anastasia. His departure leaves an irreplaceable void. He will be profoundly missed."