Over 100 feature and documentary films produced by 'Kyrgyzfilm' are now available in digital format with high sound and image quality. The restoration of classic works of Kyrgyz cinema opens new horizons for the youth, allowing them to get acquainted with national masterpieces through a series of musical live projects.
Daniyar Orozbekov, producer of the creative association CURLTAI, shared details about this large-scale project dedicated to the 85th anniversary of the studio.
Transformation of classics: digitizing 100 masterpieces
For the anniversary of 'Kyrgyzfilm', the digitization of over 100 films from the studio's archives has been completed, including significant works such as 'Wolf's Pit', 'The First Teacher', and 'Shot at the Karash Pass'. Now all these films can be seen on YouTube in an updated format with improved image and sound quality.
The founder of CURLTAI, Mirlan Satkymbaev, and the director of 'Kyrgyzfilm', Maksat Jumayev, combined the efforts of their teams for the successful implementation of this project. Modern equipment and a studio were used during the filming of the live sessions, provided by the studio.
The digitization was carried out by employees of 'Kyrgyzfilm', who underwent two weeks of training in Turkey. Turkish partners provided the studio with the necessary equipment, ensuring that the films now meet international quality standards.
"These films are now securely protected from extinction. The digital format guarantees their preservation for many years," noted Daniyar Orozbekov.
Music as a bridge: 30 artists covered film hits
In addition to the digitization, CURLTAI and 'Kyrgyzfilm', with the support of the Department of Cinematography, initiated a series of musical live projects involving more than 30 domestic performers.
Daniyar Orozbekov noted that for each song, a film corresponding to its meaning and mood was selected. For example, an energetic composition was chosen for the dynamic 'Wolf's Pit', while deeper musical numbers were selected for the dramatic works.
The live sessions became precursors to the digitized films. By listening to the music and watching the performances of the artists, the youth have the opportunity to become interested in the original films.
This project aims to popularize national cinema among young people, who are not always ready to watch old films. The musical compositions help young viewers understand the essence and atmosphere of the works, serving as a kind of trailers for the masterpieces of Kyrgyz cinema.
Diving into history: the cultural heritage of 'Kyrgyzfilm'
Daniyar Orozbekov emphasized that the films of 'Kyrgyzfilm' represent important cultural and historical artifacts. They reflect the life and customs of the people, and watching them allows one to understand that happiness is possible even in calmer times, helping to slow down in the fast pace of modern life.
These films also serve as important professional examples. Viewers and young filmmakers can learn from the masters who created these outstanding works.
Return to the roots: how Jax and other artists are restoring popularity
The project features both well-known and new performers. According to the producer, it is important for CURLTAI to support young talents.
As an example, the producer mentioned Jax, who returned to the stage with the song "Kim bilet" after a break and regained popularity. The artists participate in the project free of charge.
According to the producer, 'Kyrgyzfilm' is currently experiencing a new revival, demonstrating the significance of collaboration between new and old generations of filmmakers.
Films available for viewing on YouTube
"Difficult Crossing" (1964) — Tolomush Okeyev
This diploma work of an outstanding master is filled with sincerity and realism, telling about the tragic events of 1916 — the exodus of Kyrgyz to China. The director focuses on the fate of one family overcoming harsh mountain passes.
"Where is Your Home, Snail?" (1992) — Aktan Arym Kubat
A poetic reflection on the search for roots and identity in turbulent times. This film became a symbol of new Kyrgyz cinema, appearing in 1992. The director uses visual imagery and silence to convey the feelings of a person searching for their place in the world.
"Kozhozhash" (1984) — Tolomush Okeyev
A philosophical parable about the eternal confrontation between man and nature, based on a folk epic. The hunter Kozhozhash breaks the laws of the mountains, and nature takes revenge on him. This film, one of the most spectacular, received numerous international awards in the 1980s.
"The First Teacher" (1965) — Andrei Konchalovsky
This black-and-white classic, based on the work of Chinghiz Aitmatov, demonstrates the dramatic clash of new ideas and age-old traditions in a remote village, showcasing to the world the power of Kyrgyz prose.
