As part of the 17th Eurasia International Film Festival, the T. Zhurgenov Kazakh National Academy of Arts hosted industry panels addressing pressing topics in cinema. Participants discussed the support of debut projects and the current realities of documentary filmmaking in Kazakhstan.

Speakers included representatives of the National Center for the Support of National Cinema, as well as prominent directors and producers such as Anara Zhunusova, Aruan Anartaev, Aldiyar Bairakimov, Dias Bertis, and Gulshat Smagulova.

The discussions focused on the prospects for emerging filmmakers, the role of public and private investment, and strategies for promoting debut films.

“Producing a debut film is a unique pleasure. It’s always an opportunity to discover new talent. However, it’s important to remember that while marketing plays a role, the best tool for promotion is word-of-mouth,” said producer Anara Zhunusova.

Another critical topic, supporting young directors, was highlighted by Bauyrzhan Shukenov, Deputy Chairman of the Board for Project Monitoring at the National Center for the Support of National Cinema:

“We need to systematize our work with debut filmmakers. What do I mean by this? Personally, I would like to see the law recognize not just the first but also the second film as a debut. Making a second project is often even harder than the first. This practice is common in France and many other countries, and I believe it’s the right approach.”

A separate session, “Documentary Cinema Today,” brought together acclaimed experts in the genre, including Asiya Baigozhina, Kanat Beisekeyev, Dmitry Bogomolov, Zhanibek Murtazin, and Viktor Vilkovisky.

The participants discussed the challenges faced by documentary filmmakers, the impact of new technologies, and methods to attract audience interest in socially significant topics.

They emphasized the unique opportunities offered by documentary cinema to tackle complex subjects and showcase creative mastery.

“I believe documentary films should be made with genuine love. It’s one of the most powerful genres where a director can fully realize their potential,” said director Kanat Beisekeyev.

The ideas and discussions presented during the panels mark a step forward in creating new opportunities for young filmmakers and strengthening the position of Kazakh documentary filmmaking.

The 17th Eurasia International Film Festival continues to bring together cinema experts and audiences, highlighting critical issues in the modern film industry.

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.

General partner: BAZIS-A company.

It is noteworthy that sponsors include KAZ Minerals group, Sarens Kazakhstan, Eurasian Resources Group (ERG), Salem Entertainment, the Kinopark Theatres cinema chain, Astana Motors, Kazakhtelecom JSC, and A-Event KZ.

Media Partners: "Khabar" JSC, Qazaqstan TV Channel, NTK TV Channel, Europa Plus Kazakhstan, Eldoradio, Qazaq Gazetteri, Egemen Qazaqstan, Kazakhstanskaya Pravda, Antenna Kazakhstan, New Generation, ORDA, Kazinform International News Agency, Arbat Media, El.kz, Baq.kz, BaigeNews.