Asel Umarova, producer and executive director of the IV Bishkek Film Festival (BKF), notes that young authors need to consider not only the artistic component of their projects but also how they will be perceived in the professional environment. In an interview, she discusses the challenges faced by newcomers and important aspects that will help maintain a unique authorial style.
According to Umarova, the loss of an authorial voice occurs not due to marketing strategy but due to a lack of clarity in intentions. When a director clearly understands their goals and audience, the strategy becomes a natural extension of their vision. The ability of a project to find its audience and occupy its niche in a professional context is what defines its viability, which is not always determined by high box office returns.
– What does the market for debut films in Central Asia look like today?
- Currently, the region is showing signs of growth. Interest in local stories is increasing, and films are more frequently receiving recognition at international festivals. However, there is a lack of developing infrastructure, such as stable distribution and reliable funding models. We are at a stage of market formation, which presents both challenges and opportunities.
Participation in festivals and forums is extremely important for young authors: at these events, they can make useful connections, meet like-minded individuals, and gain new knowledge for their future projects.
– How can festivals help emerging filmmakers?
- Festivals are not just film screenings. They open doors to the professional environment, create opportunities for networking, and provide access to experts and potential partners. Industry platforms are especially important, where authors can think strategically about their projects, receive feedback, adapt their positioning, and better understand the market. This is a key stage for project development.
– What role do pitch sessions and professional meetings play?
- Pitching is not just a competition; it is a tool for clearly articulating an idea. When an author can clearly present their project and explain its significance, they better understand it themselves. It is in such formats that partnerships, co-productions, and interest from producers often arise. It serves as a kind of bridge between young authors and the world of cinema.
– How have the requirements for films changed in recent years?
- The industry has become more practical. Strong local stories that can appeal to a broad audience are now in vogue, as well as teams ready to bring projects to fruition. It is not only creative ideas that matter, but also the ability to organize the process.
– What is the main advice you can give to young directors?
- Think not only about the film itself but also about your career. Each project is a step forward. It is important to ask simple questions: who is your audience, how will the film exist, and what does it open up next? You need to structure your thoughts and approaches, and then success will follow.
– At the XIII International Forum of Young Cinema "Umут," you will present the topic "Idea and Strategy: How to Connect Creativity and the Market." Why is this so important for young authors today?
- In today's conditions, it is not enough to just create a good film. Content is becoming increasingly abundant, while audience attention is becoming more scarce. An idea alone does not guarantee a successful project launch to the audience. Without a clear understanding of how the film will live on, it may remain just an event in a narrow circle. I observe many talented directors who lack a systematic view of the future of their projects. This reflects the maturity of the industry and the ability to think not only in terms of the film but also its future fate. From the very beginning, connecting the idea and strategy helps create not just a film but a sustainable presence in the industry.
