From November 24 to 30, Almaty will become the center of international cinema, hosting the XVII International Film Festival "Eurasia". This year, special attention is paid to the anniversaries of Kazakhstani cinema, including the 110th anniversary of the birth of the great Shaken Aimanov, whose legacy symbolizes the richness of the country's cultural traditions. 

"This year is especially important for us, because the festival is taking place in the year of significant anniversaries. We are celebrating the 90th anniversary of the national film studio "Kazakhfilm", 40 years since it was named after Shaken Aimanov, as well as 110 years since his birth. Shaken Aimanov is a symbol of Kazakhstani cinema, who left a deep mark on its development and inspired many generations of filmmakers. The return of the International Film Festival "Eurasia" after a long break symbolizes a new stage in the development of Kazakhstani cinema. We are witnessing the revival and new breath of Kazakhfilm, which continues to work actively, support talents and create films that resonate not only in the country but also beyond its borders,” said Acting President of JSC National Film Studio Kazakhfilm named after Shaken Aimanov, Director of the XVII International Film Festival Aidar Omarov, emphasizing the importance of this event for the development of Kazakhstani cinema.

One of the main events of the festival will be the screening of the restored version of the cult film Aldar Kose the Beardless Deceiver (1964), created by Aimanov himself.

“We strive to show the richness of the cultural heritage of Kazakhstan and Central Asia.The screening of the restored version of "Aldar Kose the Beardless Deceiver" is a tribute to our great director Shaken Aimanov and an opportunity for viewers to see his work in a new quality," said Diana Ashimova, program director of the XVII International Film Festival "Eurasia".

The film festival, which is traditionally organized by the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, was made possible thanks to the support of sponsors and partners. The general partner was the international construction company Bazis-A, as well as large companies KAZ Minerals, Eurasian Resources Group (ERG), Sarens Kazakhstan, Salem Entertainment, the Kinopark cinema chain and Astana Motors.

The festival program includes an international competition, as well as a competition of Central Asian countries and the Turkic world. And also business platforms. Karim Kadyrbayev spoke about them.

"The festival includes not only competitive screenings, but also non-competitive programs, master classes, premieres and business platforms that will create unique opportunities for exchanging experience and knowledge among film industry professionals. All events will be held in the most modern cinema halls of Almaty Kinopark 11 IMAX Esentai, and business meetings will be held in the Kazakh National Academy of Arts named after Temirbek Zhurgenov," said Karim Kadyrbayev, head of the business platform of the film festival.

The Eurasia Festival continues its mission to support cultural dialogue and promote new names in cinema.The festival’s information partners play a special role in its success: JSC Khabar, Qazaqstan TV channel, NTK TV channel, Europe Plus Kazakhstan, Eldoradio, Qazaq Gazetteri, Egemen Qazaqstan, Kazakhstanskaya Pravda, Antenna Kazakhstan, New Generation, ORDA, MIA Kazinform, Arbat Media, El.kz and Baq.kz.

gov.kz