Now more than 100 feature and documentary films created by 'Kyrgyzfilm' are available in digital format with high-quality sound and image. The restoration and digitization process of classic Kyrgyz cinema has helped the younger generation rediscover national masterpieces.
Producer of the creative association CURLTAI, Daniyar Orozbekov, shared details about the large-scale project dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the studio.
The Return of Classics: How 100 Films Got a Modern Look
In honor of the anniversary of 'Kyrgyzfilm', over 100 iconic feature and documentary films have been digitized, including well-known films such as 'Wolf's Den', 'The First Teacher', 'Shot at the Karash Pass', and others. All these works can now be found on YouTube in an updated format with improved quality.
The collaboration between CURLTAI founder, Mirlan Satkybaev, and 'Kyrgyzfilm' director, Maksat Jumayev, laid the foundation for this project. Modern equipment and a studio provided by the studio were used for filming musical live sessions.
Specialists from 'Kyrgyzfilm' underwent two weeks of training in Turkey to carry out the digitization. Turkish partners provided high-quality equipment that allowed the masterpieces to meet international standards.
"Now these films will be safe. The digital format guarantees their preservation for many years," noted Daniyar Orozbekov.
Musical Adaptations: How 30 Artists Reinterpreted Iconic Movie Hits
As part of the celebration of the 85th anniversary of the CURLTAI studio and 'Kyrgyzfilm', with the assistance of the Department of Cinematography, a series of musical live projects was launched, featuring over 30 domestic performers.
Daniyar Orozbekov emphasized that a theme and mood corresponding to each film were chosen for each song. For example, an energetic composition was selected for the dynamic Kyrgyz action film 'Wolf's Den', while deeper and more emotional songs were chosen for dramatic works.
These live sessions have become a kind of bridge to the digitized films, allowing young people to become interested in the classics of Kyrgyz cinema while watching performances by popular artists.
The initiative aims to promote national cinema among the youth, who are not always ready to watch old films in their entirety. Music helps young people understand the essence and atmosphere of the works, effectively serving as trailers for the masterpieces of Kyrgyz cinema.
Cultural Heritage of 'Kyrgyzfilm': A Look into the Future
Daniyar Orozbekov noted that the films of 'Kyrgyzfilm' represent a significant historical and cultural heritage. They capture the history of the people and reflect their culture and everyday life. Watching these films allows people to realize that happiness is possible even in calmer times and helps to slow down the pace of life in our fast world.
These films also represent an important educational resource. Viewers and young filmmakers can learn from the masters of cinema who created these masterpieces.
Returning to Roots: How New Artists Bring Fresh Ideas
The project involves both well-known and emerging performers. Supporting young talents is an important aspect for CURLTAI, according to the producer.
As an example, Daniyar mentioned the singer Jaxa, who returned to the stage with the song "Kim bilet" as part of the CURLTAI project after a long hiatus and regained popularity. Artists participate in the project free of charge.
The producer noted that 'Kyrgyzfilm' is currently experiencing a period of revival, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between new and established representatives of cinema.
List of Films Available on YouTube Right Now
'Difficult Crossing' (1964) — Tolomush Okeyev
This diploma work by a renowned master is full of sincerity and realism. The film tells the tragic events of 1916 — the exodus of Kyrgyz to China, focusing on the fate of an ordinary family overcoming harsh mountain passes.
'Where is Your Home, Snail?' (1992) — Aktan Arim Kubat
A poetic and metaphorical work about the search for roots and identity in a time of change. The film was released in 1992, when the country was experiencing a turning point, and became a symbol of "new Kyrgyz cinema". The director uses visuals and silence to convey the inner world of the protagonist.
'Kozhozhash' (1984) — Tolomush Okeyev
A philosophical parable about the eternal conflict between man and nature, based on a folk epic. The hunter Kozhozhash breaks the laws of the mountains, and nature begins to take revenge. This is one of the studio's most famous films, which received numerous international awards in the 1980s.
'The First Teacher' (1965) — Andrei Konchalovsky
A black-and-white classic based on a story by Chinghiz Aitmatov. The dramatic clash of new ideas and traditions in a remote aul showcased the power of Kyrgyz literature to the world.
