“This is an important stage for us. 'Umut' has become a stable professional platform and a significant event in the cinematic life of Central Asia. We approach this year with a sense of growth and development. The forum is gradually acquiring a clear structure, transforming not only into a venue for film screenings but also into a full-fledged professional environment for young filmmakers,” she added.
Mamytova emphasized that the forum provides an international platform for showcasing new works by young directors from Kyrgyzstan and other countries.
“This year we are highlighting two main areas. The first is the main program 'Umut', which includes competitive and special screenings, premieres, and discussions of films. The second is Umut Industry, the business and educational part of the forum. It is interesting because it brings together audiences and professionals, as well as the younger and more experienced generations of filmmakers. Participants can not only enjoy cinema but also immerse themselves in a vibrant professional environment, gaining new knowledge and contacts,” the producer stressed.
She also added that the main program includes international and national competitions, special screenings, and discussions with authors. It features films from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Armenia, and other countries.
“We are pleased to announce that last year we launched a separate documentary program UmutDoc, and this year it has transformed into an independent documentary film festival 'UmutDoc'. The pitching of short fiction projects holds a special place: authors present their ideas to industry experts and receive professional feedback. The entire Umut Industry program focuses on pitching so that participants can derive maximum practical benefit,” Mamytova summarized.
Discussing the composition of the jury, she noted that it includes representatives from the film industry, studios, and professional platforms who not only evaluate projects but are also ready to support participants. Importantly, Umut Industry events are open to everyone: not only forum participants but also any interested authors can attend lectures, master classes, and meetings.
