The book "Klara Yusupjanova" is rich in illustrations and explores the diversity of talent of this charismatic figure. The films created under her guidance continue to promote Kyrgyz culture both in her homeland and beyond.
The presentation was held in an atmosphere of warmth and gathered many renowned film scholars, directors, and admirers of Klara Yusupjanova's work. Ernest Abdyjaparov, one of the directors, noted: "Klara remains with us, symbolizing talent, love for the homeland, honor, and dignity." The heroine of the event looked at the guests from the covers of the book and photographs from her films displayed in the university auditorium.
Jamba Jusubaliev, the author of the book, shared memories of her mother: "My mother's creative life as an actress and director was inseparably linked with creative inspiration. Together with my father, screenwriter Kubatbek Jusubaliev, they created documentary films, forming an ideal co-authorship where text and visual elements harmoniously combined." She also added that the presentation was timed to coincide with her father's 85th anniversary.
The event began with a screening of the documentary film "The Tiger Lifted Two Cows on Jailoo," which immediately captivated the audience's attention. Despite its short duration of twenty minutes, the film is filled with deep meaning and is capable of uplifting the spirit of the people for many years.
Gulbara Tolomusheva, a well-known film scholar, spoke warmly about the film: "It is dedicated to the ancient art of carpet weaving and the poetics of patterns, revealing their spiritual and cultural significance. The authors present a cinematic study of the genesis of the Kyrgyz pattern and share fascinating information about the mysteries of patterns on alakiiz, tushkiiz, and shyrdak." Interestingly, the title of the film is related to one of the patterns created by Kyrgyz artisans.
Speakers noted that the authors skillfully managed to connect the past and the present, showing how nature continues to live in the works of folk masters. The pleasant voice of Kubatbek Jusubaliev, the constant screenwriter for Klara's films, adds depth to the visual perception.
Doctor of Philosophy Valentin Mikhalkovich, in his book "Klara Yusupjanova," claims that Klara's films can be listened to with closed eyes, as they feature a deep voice that narrates the traditional Kyrgyz way of life and the lives of shepherds. He emphasizes the uniqueness of the intonations and expressiveness of this voice, which is capable of conveying a multitude of emotions.
The voice of Kubatbek Jusubaliev, Klara's husband, concludes their joint creation "The Tiger Lifted Two Cows on Jailoo," making it particularly expressive. "A traditional storyteller should speak in a way that makes the events tangible," adds Professor Mikhalkovich.
Klara, despite her fragility, was a strong and determined personality. As one film scholar noted, she embodied everything Kyrgyz: her posture, gaze, and movements. She filmed her movies in places where the Kyrgyz cultural code originated — in villages and on jailoo.
The films in which Klara Yusupjanova acted or which she created continue to attract the attention of viewers both in Kyrgyzstan and beyond. Film scholars emphasize that her true value is not measured by numbers but lies in the sincerity and honesty of her works. As Aktan Arym Kubat noted, "Klara's films are made for centuries; they are full of life and touch the hearts of viewers."
Evgenia Zvonkina, a professor of film studies from Paris, noted that Klara's films were admired in France. "The audience was eager to explore a new culture, and the director's talent played a key role in this. She created a feeling as if she was conversing with them," she added, expressing her intention to organize a repeat screening of Klara's films in Paris.
Additionally, Evgenia Zvonkina is interested in Yusupjanova's unfinished film "Aeroplane," which was intended to showcase the An-2 airplane and raise issues of ecology and human interaction with nature. However, due to the collapse of the USSR, the project remained unfinished, which deeply upset Klara.
Ernest Abdyjaparov recalled working on "Aeroplane" when he was sent to Chon-Alai for filming. He described how Klara was insistent in her demands, which sometimes led to disarray, but this pursuit of perfection helped create unique films.
Despite the difficulties, Klara was devoted to her work. Her persistence and determination would have made "Aeroplane" a full-fledged feature film if the Union had not collapsed. Klara-ezheke left an unforgettable mark on Kyrgyz cinema and culture, and her legacy continues to live on.
Ernest Abdyjaparov's memories vividly highlight Klara Yusupjanova's outstanding contribution to Kyrgyz cinema and her significance in the history of the country.
