The creation of new infrastructure for film production will be a significant milestone in the development of Kyrgyz cinema. In 2026, the first film studio in the country's history is planned to be built, along with the opening of a modern recording studio meeting Dolby Atmos standards.
Deputy Minister of Culture, Information and Youth Policy Marat Tagaev reported that currently, Kyrgyz filmmakers are forced to turn to foreign studios for professional dubbing of their films, which costs them between 15,000 to 20,000 dollars per project. The opening of a domestic studio will allow for a complete production cycle in Kyrgyzstan and significantly reduce costs.
Increase in State Funding
Over the past five years, financial support for Kyrgyz cinema has increased tenfold. While in 2020 less than 100 million soms were allocated to this sector, in:
- 2023 — 354 million soms
- 2024 — 377 million soms
- 2025 — 1 billion 20 million soms
- 2026 — 988 million soms
This increase in funding is accompanied by stricter quality requirements for content: a "single window" system is being implemented, scripts undergo artistic councils at "Kyrgyzfilm" and "Kyrgyzserial," and the final decision is made by the artistic-expert council at the Department of Cinematography.
Transition to Commercial Cinema
For many years, state cinema in Kyrgyzstan primarily had an educational and festival character. However, starting in 2026, the strategy will change: a new direction for the production of commercial and audience-oriented films will be created within the structure of "Kyrgyzfilm." The state intends to finance 2-3 commercial films annually, aimed at wide release with the goal of recouping investments. This is a step towards transferring the successful experience of the private sector, which has already proven that Kyrgyz films can generate significant revenue.
Production Achievements
Kyrgyzstan is currently demonstrating impressive results in film production. Every year, between 80 to 100 films are produced in the country. According to global rankings, the republic is among the top 5 countries in the world in terms of national films per capita.
In recent years, many feature films, documentaries, short films, animated works, and series have been created. The institution "Kyrgyzserial" actively releases projects for national television and digital platforms.
Cinemas and Regional Development
Currently, there are 37 cinemas operating in Kyrgyzstan. In 2024, 20 of them were leased to private investors for better management. Plans include leasing another 10 regional cinemas to the private sector through open auctions.
Modernizing the cinema network is seen as an important element, as the development of commercial cinema is impossible without modern halls.
Historical Films and Opportunities for Masters
The state is also focusing on major historical projects. In 2026, preparations will begin for the adaptation of the novel "Syngan Kylch" by Tologon Kasymbekov, one of the key works of Kyrgyz literature.
Additionally, directors whose films receive awards at "A" class festivals will be granted creative "carte blanche." For example, Aktan Arym Kubat is working on the adaptation of the novella "Ajar" by Kasymaly Bayalinov.
Animation and Children's Films
Special attention is being paid to animation in the Kyrgyz language. In 2026, 50 million soms will be allocated to this area, of which about 30 million will go towards creating new cartoons, and 20 million will be for professional dubbing of globally recognized animated hits.
Kyrgyz Cinema Against the Background of the Global Industry
The global film industry has long demonstrated its economic value.
For example:
- The annual global box office revenue of the film industry before the crisis exceeded 40 billion dollars
- Hollywood films generate not only box office revenue but also huge profits from streaming, licensing, merchandising, and tourism
- In South Korea, films and series have become part of "soft power," bringing billions of dollars in export revenue to the country each year.
Although Kyrgyzstan has not yet reached such scales, the chosen course towards developing infrastructure, commercial cinema, and export potential aligns with global trends.
It is important to note that Kyrgyz cinema is currently on the path from auteur cinema to a full-fledged industry. With the adherence to transparent rules, healthy competition, and consideration of audience needs, cinema can become not only an important part of the cultural identity of the country but also an independent sector of the economy.
