In 2007 , Mikhalkov directed and starred in '' 12 '' , a Russian adaptation of Sidney Lumet 's court drama '' 12 Angry Men '' . In September 2007 , '' 12 '' received a special Golden Lion for the “ consistent brilliance ” of its work and was praised by many critics at the Venice Film Festival . In 2008 , '' 12 '' was named as a nominee for Best Foreign Language Film for the 80th Academy Awards . Commenting on the nomination , Mikhalkov said , " I am overjoyed that the movie has been noticed in the United States and , what 's more , was included in the shortlist of five nominees . This is a significant event for me . " He also served as the executive producer of an epic film '' 1612 ''
80th Academy Awards
80th Academy Awards
Nikita Mikhalkov