Sometimes, creating a true cinematic masterpiece requires surprisingly little – just 12 days, a modest budget, and a faith in the story. This was the case with Sharipa Urazbayeva’s film "Tul". The story of a girl raised in an orphanage became a standout sensation at the Eurasia International Film Festival.

“The film’s budget was minimal. The actors practically agreed to work for free. This kind of support for auteur cinema from the cast is incredibly meaningful. I’m deeply grateful,” said Sharipa Urazbayeva during a press conference held on the festival’s second day.

Based on true events from the life of one of Sharipa’s friends, the film is more than a movie – it’s an emotional journey into the depths of the human soul. It tells the story of a lonely girl raised in an orphanage who faces a life of profound hardship.

“After enduring so many challenges, my friend began to struggle with severe psychological issues. She now constantly sees a demon within herself. I wanted to capture this moment in the film’s conclusion – that the demons we face often come from within,” Urazbayeva explained.

But "Tul" isn’t just a deeply personal story; it’s also a film about Kazakhstan. Scenes depicting the January events infuse the film with a unique atmosphere, doubling as a powerful statement from the director.

“The January events were a deeply painful chapter for all of us. Including them in the film was my way of addressing what truly matters to us as a society,” she said.

The title, "Tul", carries layered and profound meaning, much like the film itself. As Sharipa Urazbayeva explained, the Kazakh word doesn’t merely mean “orphan.” It also conveys a sense of profound mental isolation – a state where a person feels completely disconnected from the world, as if no one can understand their pain.

"Tul" isn’t just about being an orphan. It’s about the inner struggles of the human soul. That’s what I wanted to convey,” the director shared.

The film premiered to overwhelming acclaim at the XVII Eurasia International Film Festival. The screening hall was packed, audiences were riveted, and the Q&A session with the director and cast drew a flood of questions.

"Tul" is a shining example of how, even with limited resources, it’s possible to create a film that not only moves audiences but also inspires deep reflection.

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.