The annual forum "Umut" in Kyrgyzstan serves as such a platform aimed at supporting emerging directors. This year, participants will present 18 films from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and other countries. For some of these authors, this is their first opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience and receive valuable feedback.
Notable names such as Asel Zhuraeva, an international award-winning filmmaker, Ruslan Akun, known for the films "The Last Lesson" and "In Search of Mom," as well as Russian director Elizaveta Stishova, also began their journeys at similar festivals.
The forum will last three days and will conclude on March 7. In addition to film screenings, participants can look forward to master classes from experienced professionals, networking opportunities, and pitching sessions for short narrative films. This is a great opportunity for emerging directors to exchange experiences and establish useful connections for future projects.
The main events of the "Umut" forum take place at the Ch. Aitmatov Cinema House and include competitive and non-competitive screenings, as well as discussions with the filmmakers. Umut Industry, held at the "Oloolo-Erkindik" coworking space, offers an educational platform with master classes, lectures, and pitching sessions, fostering the development of creative connections and professional dialogue in the region.
This year, the slogan of the forum is "With Love from Paris." It is dedicated to the work of the People's Artist of Kyrgyzstan, artist and film actor Dogdurbek Kydyraliev, as well as the veteran of Kyrgyz cinema, film scholar, and educator Seyit Bokonbaev. A creative meeting with Bokonbaev is scheduled for March 6.
