The XI Umud International Youth Film Forum, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Kyrgyz filmmaker and national artist Bekesh Abdyldaev, has concluded in Bishkek. This year's event, themed "For Future Generations with Love," featured screenings of short films, master classes, lectures, and many other engaging activities.
The forum kicked off at the iconic "Ala-Too" cinema, a significant venue for the local film industry. Participants were welcomed with a red carpet, a yurt in traditional attire, and DJs playing familiar tunes in new genres.
Gulcair Tilenvaeva, director of the "Ala-Too" cinema and forum committee member, expressed her love for Umud, emphasizing the importance of providing platforms for young filmmakers. The festival opened with screenings of documentaries by young director Aliman Toktogulova and Bekesh Abdyldaev's 1967 film "Sada," with the director's son, Erlan Abdyldaev, in attendance.
Over three days, the festival showcased over 80 films, including 18 in the national competition and 12 in the international category. Participants not only enjoyed film screenings but also engaged in knowledge exchange through master classes and lectures by cinema experts.
The forum also featured a Festival Fair with presentations of prestigious cinema events like the Bishkek International Film Festival and Qarash Lab. Rudolf Khaynurov, a director from Tatarstan, praised the warm reception in Kyrgyzstan and highlighted the importance of such gatherings for making significant decisions in the film industry.
An essential aspect of this year's cultural event was the pitching sessions, where filmmakers presented their projects to seek investments. Russian producer Dmitry Yakunin conducted a master class on presenting creative ideas, with funds allocated from the national budget for winners.
The forum concluded with a tribute to Bekesh Abdyldaev, screening his films "Naryn Stars" and "Mail," followed by an official closing ceremony. Curator Elvira Mamytova expressed satisfaction with the forum's success, noting the positive reactions from participants and audiences.
Established in 2013 to support young talent and promote the professional growth of emerging directors, Umud serves as a valuable platform for discovering new talents and fostering collaboration in the film industry. The forum is organized by the Department of Cinematography under the Ministry of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the Intergovernmental Foundation for Humanitarian Cooperation of CIS Countries.
