Eydus Alexander Maksimovich (1889)

Eydus Alexander Maksimovich (28.03.1889, Dvinsk, Vitebsk Governorate, now Daugavpils, Latvia) — administrative and management worker at a film studio, first-category film director, one of the most senior film workers of the USSR. Born into a family of artisans. Due to difficult financial circumstances, in 1905 was forced to leave the 5th grade of the Dvinsk City 6-grade school; in 1906, took a job as assistant projectionist at the first city cinema “Beaumont.” In 1907–11 — cinema projectionist in Dvinsk, Vitebsk and Nevel. In 1912–18 — manager of cinemas in Vitebsk and Minsk (Belarus). In 1919–24 — head of the operations department of the Vitebsk Gubernia Film and Photo Section and head of the rental office “Levfilm” in Vitebsk. In 1924–39 — headed the operations department of the “Belgoskino” trust, was deputy head of the Cinematography Administration and then of the regional cinematography department in Minsk. In 1939–41 — film director of “Song of Love” at the “Soviet Belarus” film studio. In 1941–44 — film director of “Ivan the Terrible” at the Central Consolidated Film Studio in Alma-Ata (Kazakhstan), then at “Mosfilm.” In March 1945, by order of the USSR Ministry of Cinematography, was transferred to the Riga Film Studio as director of the film “Return with Victory” and took an active part in the work of the entire organisation. From December 1952 to June 1956 — deputy director for production at the Riga Film Studio. Participated in the creation of a number of outstanding documentary, popular science and feature films: “Rainis,” “Soviet Latvia,” “On New Paths,” “Machinists, Attention!,” “Years of Flame.” Awarded the medal “For Valiant Labour,” the badge “For Excellent Work,” and two Certificates of Honour of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the Latvian SSR.

I. Bazhul