Julia Matyash: "Our international catalog is built around top-quality content with global potential"

With a solid track record in bringing Russian content to international audiences, RTR arrives at Asia TV Forum with a catalog that blends tradition and modernity. In this interview, Julia Matyash, the Director of Content Distribution at RTR, shares insights into the company’s key projects for the market, current global trends in content demand, and its goals for strengthening its worldwide presence in 2026.

What key projects are you presenting at ATF this year?
"We are bringing to the market the historical drama 'The Princess of Mercy'; the psychological detective/action series 'Inside The Criminal Mind' as well as a lineup of melodramas such as 'Sisters', 'Besties', and 'The Color of Pomegranate' along with the Golden Collection of Restored 'Fairy Tales Animation"

What makes them different?
"Each title reflects current global buyer demand and opens an entire section within Russia TV and Radio’s diverse, multi-genre catalog."

How do you approach acquiring or producing titles with regard to international appeal and market trends?
"Our international catalog is built around top-quality content with global potential. We focus on universal narratives anchored in traditional human values: family, love, and loyalty. Buyers today are looking for stories that combine emotional depth with a modern, cinematic style - engaging, dynamic, and not limited by geography. Something gripping, with a detective storyline or action twist, always catches buyers’ attention."

RTR has built a strong reputation in the historical series and drama space. What global trends are you seeing in demand for this type of content right now?
"Large-scale costume dramas based on real historical characters continue to dominate demand across Asia and beyond."

Looking ahead, what are your priorities and objectives for 2026 as you continue to develop your company?
"Our priorities remain clear: to provide audiences worldwide with captivating, emotionally engaging stories that inspire empathy and immersion in the lives of their characters."