The Kyrgyz drama Kurak, directed by Erke Dzhumakmatova and Emil Atageldiev, was pulled from the Bishkek International Film Festival after the Kyrgyztasmasy State Film Center denied it a mandatory state registration certificate. The film, which explores gender-based violence, remains barred from public screening in Kyrgyzstan despite receiving international acclaim, including the Vision of Jiseok Award at the Busan International Film Festival.
Why was the film denied a screening certificate?
The Department of Cinematography blocked the film’s national premiere less than 24 hours before its scheduled screening. According to the filmmakers, the state regulator cited “Protocol No. 1 of the departmental commission,” which followed an expert evaluation of the movie. The agency provided no further explanation to the production team. Under current Kyrgyz law, public screenings are legally prohibited without this specific state registration certificate.
How are the filmmakers responding to the censorship?
Co-director Erke Dzhumakmatova stated that the denial serves as an ironic validation of the film’s core themes. “Our film is about those who try to suppress the truth,” Dzhumakmatova said. She confirmed that the team intends to ensure the film reaches domestic audiences despite the administrative ban. Pavel Feldman, a producer representing Human Films, characterized the decision as a “grave mistake” and emphasized the team’s obligation to share the story with the public.
Before the domestic block, Kurak successfully screened at 14 international festivals, including events in France, Bangladesh, and South Korea.
What is the global impact of restricted cinema?
The case of Kurak highlights a growing tension between international artistic recognition and local regulatory control. While the film has secured the Grand Prix at the Dhaka International Film Festival and multiple honors at the Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema, it currently faces a total blackout in its home market. Johann Chapelan of Girelle Production noted that the film’s themes regarding the silencing of women’s voices are universal, making its domestic suppression particularly significant to international co-producers from Switzerland, Serbia, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, and Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the primary reason the film cannot be shown in Kyrgyzstan? The Kyrgyztasmasy State Film Center denied the production a required State Registration Certificate.
- Has the government explained the denial? No. The Department of Cinematography cited an internal expert evaluation protocol but provided no detailed justification to the filmmakers.
- Can the film be seen elsewhere? Yes. The film has already completed a successful run at 14 international film festivals and continues to be distributed globally.
Have you seen Kurak at an international festival or followed its journey? Share your thoughts on the role of cinema in social discourse in the comments below.
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