The International Competition at the Eurasia Film Festival, taking place from November 24 to 30, serves as a platform showcasing iconic and experimental films from across the globe. It offers audiences an opportunity to explore pressing contemporary issues, cultural phenomena, and daring artistic expressions. This year’s program features 12 films spanning three continents, making the competition one of the most multifaceted segments of the festival.

The selected films represent a vibrant mosaic of cultures and viewpoints, with stories ranging from Bangladesh and South Korea to Austria and Qatar. Filmmakers from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East bring compelling narratives that intertwine universal themes with unique local contexts.

Participants illustrate a wide range of genres and topics: from social dramas and tales of personal struggles to philosophical reflections on life. This diversity makes the International Competition not only artistically significant but also educational for viewers, offering viewers fresh perspectives on timeless questions.

Each film in the lineup delivers a bold artistic vision. Among the selection are works that particularly captivate:

1. “To a Land Unknown” (UK, France, Germany, et al., 2024, 105 min)

A tale of two Palestinian refugees struggling to survive in Athens while dreaming of a better future. This deeply emotional story of friendship, loss, and the search for a new home sheds light on the modern migration crisis.

2. “Nirvana” (Bangladesh, 2024, 82 min)

A philosophical exploration of the lives of three individuals fighting to keep their inner light alive. The film delves into the tension between societal norms and personal aspirations, leaving viewers with much to ponder.

3. “My Favourite Cake” (Iran, France, Sweden, Germany, 2024, 97 min)

A heartfelt story about a 70-year-old widow in Tehran who discovers newfound hope and joy through an unexpected encounter. This touching narrative reminds us that it is never too late to rediscover love and embrace the world anew.

The films featured in the competition address a broad spectrum of themes:

- Migration Crisis and Identity Search (To a Land Unknown)

- Spiritual Transformation and Inner Peace (Nirvana)

- Social Conflicts and Tragedies (Next to Nothing)

- Tradition and Modernization Challenges (Land of Our Mothers)

- Rediscovering Meaning in Later Life (My Favourite Cake)

- Nostalgia and Philosophical Reflection (Moon)

- Women’s Identity and Family (House of the Seasons)

- Identity and Confronting Personal Demons (Disco Boy)

- Religious and Spiritual Contemplation (Citizen Saint)

- The Past’s Influence on the Present (Brief History of a Family)

- Love as an Eternal Theme (We Need to Make Movies About Love)

- Identity, Coming of Age, and Self-Discovery (Tul)

These works not only showcase exceptional cinematic craftsmanship but also invite viewers to rethink their perspectives on the modern world.

The International Competition is a cornerstone of the Eurasia Film Festival, solidifying its reputation as a significant cultural platform. The competition features films that have already earned acclaim at prestigious festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice, alongside works that are just beginning to make their mark on the global stage.

The competition serves as a bridge between the cultural traditions of different nations, offering audiences a chance to appreciate the uniqueness of each piece. This diversity transforms the event into a cinematic journey that promises to leave no one indifferent.

The International Competition at the Eurasia Film Festival is a platform for films that push the boundaries of traditional cinematic forms. Each entry contributes to a cultural dialogue, connecting people through the power of art. In 2024, audiences can expect stories that inspire, astonish, and leave a profound imprint on the heart.

The festival is founded and traditionally organized by the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, with the Kazakhfilm Studio named after Shaken Aimanov entrusted with the direct organization of the event.

To note, sponsors include the international construction company Bazis-A, the mining company KAZ Minerals, Sarens Kazakhstan, Eurasian Resources Group (ERG), Salem Entertainment, the Kinopark Theatres cinema chain, and Astana Motors.