On February 25, the world premiere of the multi-part documentary project titled "Dominic West: Kyrgyzstan," also known internationally as Beyond the Silk Road, took place at the VUE Cinema Leicester Square in London.
According to the Ministry of Culture, members of the film crew, representatives of international cultural organizations, and numerous guests attended the ceremonial premiere. The evening was opened under the guidance of Alexandra Tolstoy, Clarke Peters, and Dominic West.
The Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan, Timurlan Azhymaliev, delivered a welcoming speech, emphasizing the significance of this project for the development of international cultural dialogue and its role in presenting Kyrgyzstan as a country with a unique historical heritage and distinctive culture.
"Dominic West: Kyrgyzstan" is an ambitious international documentary series in which British actor Dominic West explores the routes of the Silk Road within Kyrgyzstan. The project is directed by Laura Jones, a renowned British producer and director working in the field of documentary filmmaking.
The series offers viewers a deep dive into the culture, nature, history, and everyday life of Kyrgyzstan. The journey begins in Bishkek, where the actor visits the Osh Bazaar and Ala-Too Square, and then continues through the epic tradition of "Manas." The route then passes through Kara-Suu, the Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve, the Kara-Kamish jailoo, Tash-Rabat, the At-Bashy district, and the Torugart Pass, which is a key part of the Silk Road.
The documentary introduces viewers to:
- The traditional nomadic way of life;
- National games such as ulak tartysh and kyzy kumai;
- The art of berkutchi;
- Folk crafts, including shyrdak and ak kalpak;
- The music and oral heritage of the Kyrgyz people;
- The unique natural beauties of the Chatkal Range and the walnut forests of Sary-Chelek.