Critically acclaimed and award winning Bulgarian director Javor Gardev has completed the Malta shoot on the Russian feature film Icaria.

The plot of the science fiction film unfolds in 2027 when scientific progress in the field of genetics make immortality possible.

The producers were attracted to Malta thanks to the film facilities at the Film Studios in Kalkara.

However, following discussions with the Malta Film Commission, the producers filmed at various other locations both in Malta and Gozo.

Elaborate special effect shots were filmed at the water studios where futuristic sets were built by Maltese craftsmen based on designs drawn up by a team of aerodynamics specialists, futurologists and concept designers.

Besides Javor Gardev, who had won the best director award at the 2008 edition of the Moscow International Film Festival, the film also included a long list of renowned Russian actors.

The film also features the cult British band, The Tiger Lillies, who have a camp role and recorded the title track for the film.