More than 100 films, both feature and documentary, from 'Kyrgyzfilm' are now available for viewing in digital format with high sound and image quality. The restoration of classic Kyrgyz films and the creation of musical live projects allow the youth to rediscover national masterpieces.
Daniyar Orozbekov, producer of the creative association CURLTAI, spoke about the large-scale work carried out for the 85th anniversary of the studio.
How 100 masterpieces received new life
For the anniversary of 'Kyrgyzfilm', the digitization of more than 100 films from the studio's archive was successfully completed. Among them are significant films such as 'Wolf's Pit', 'The First Teacher', 'Shot at the Karash Pass', and others. Now viewers can enjoy these works on YouTube in an updated format with improved image and sound quality.
The founder of CURLTAI, Mirlan Satkymbaev, and the director of 'Kyrgyzfilm', Maksat Jumaev, worked together on the implementation of this project. The studio provided modern equipment and a filming pavilion.
The digitization process was carried out by employees of 'Kyrgyzfilm', who underwent two weeks of training in Turkey. The new equipment provided by Turkish partners allowed achieving world-class quality standards.
“These films will now be safe. The digital format guarantees their preservation for many years,” noted Daniyar Orozbekov.
Music as a bridge between generations: 30 artists covered movie hits
In addition to film restoration, CURLTAI and 'Kyrgyzfilm', with the support of the Department of Cinematography, launched a series of musical live projects involving more than 30 artists.
Daniyar Orozbekov explained that for each song, a film corresponding to its meaning and mood was chosen. For example, a dynamic composition was selected for the first Kyrgyz action film 'Wolf's Pit', while deeper and more emotional songs were chosen for dramatic films.
These live sessions became a kind of prelude to the digitized films. The youth, listening to music and watching performances by well-known artists, may become interested in the films themselves.
The goal of the project is to popularize Kyrgyz cinema among the youth, who are not always ready to watch old films in their entirety. The musical accompaniment helps to better understand the content and atmosphere of these works, serving as a kind of trailers for the masterpieces of Kyrgyz cinema.
Cultural heritage: the significance of 'Kyrgyzfilm' in 2026
According to Daniyar Orozbekov, the films of 'Kyrgyzfilm' hold immense historical and cultural significance. They reflect the culture, lifestyle, and daily life of the people, preserving history. Watching these films allows viewers to realize that happiness can be found even in a quieter pace of life, which is relevant in modern times.
These films also represent valuable professional experience. Viewers and the new generation of filmmakers can learn from the masters who created these works.
Returning to roots: how Jax and other artists are rekindling interest in national culture
The project involves both well-known and emerging artists. The producer of CURLTAI noted that supporting young talents is an important part of their work.
As an example, the producer mentioned Jax, who returned to the stage with the song 'Kim bilet' and regained popularity after a hiatus. The participation of artists in the project is on a voluntary basis.
According to the producer, 'Kyrgyzfilm' is currently experiencing a new era, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between new and old masters of cinema.
Films available on YouTube right now
'Difficult Crossing' (1964) — Tolo Okeev
The graduation work of the famous director, full of sincerity and realism, tells about the tragic events of 1916 — the exodus of Kyrgyz to China, focusing on the fate of an ordinary family overcoming mountain passes.
'Where is Your Home, Snail?' (1992) — Aktan Arym Kubat
A poetic reflection on the search for roots and identity during the turbulent period of 1992, which became a symbol of the new Kyrgyz cinema, where the director uses visual imagery to convey the emotional state of a person.
'Kozhozhash' (1984) — Tolo Okeev
A philosophical parable about the confrontation between man and nature, filmed based on a folk epic, tells how the hunter Kozhozhash violates the laws of the mountains, for which nature begins to take revenge. This is one of the most successful films of the studio, having received numerous awards in the 1980s.
'The First Teacher' (1965) — Andrei Konchalovsky
A black-and-white classic based on the story by Chinghiz Aitmatov, showcasing the dramatic clash of old and new in a remote aul, demonstrating to the world the power of Kyrgyz literature.
