Films, Pitchings, and New Names. What the "Umут" Forum Will Be Like This Year

Наталья Маркова Society
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From March 3 to 7, Bishkek will host the XIII International Young Cinema Forum "Umut". The program includes competitive screenings, special sessions, film demonstrations participating in international festivals, as well as lectures, master classes, and project pitchings. Elvira Mamytova, producer and coordinator of the forum, shared information about how the event is evolving and what opportunities it offers to participants.

According to Mamytova, "Umut" has become a significant professional platform and an important event in the cinematic life of Central Asia. She emphasized that this year the forum feels a sense of internal growth and development, becoming not only a place for film screenings but also a full-fledged environment for young filmmakers.



Elvira Mamytova noted that this international platform allows for familiarization with the works of young directors from Kyrgyzstan and other countries.

“The forum includes two main directions. The first is the main program "Umut", where competitive screenings, special events, and film discussions take place. The second direction, Umut Industry, serves as an educational and business platform. It is a space that brings together both audiences and professionals, where young and experienced filmmakers can exchange knowledge and experience,” she explained.

Mamytova added that the main program includes international and national competitions, special screenings, and discussions with the filmmakers. Works from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Armenia, and other countries will be presented here.

Films, pitchings, and new names. What will the 'Umut' forum be like this year


She also reported that last year a separate documentary film program UmutDoc was launched, and this year it has transformed into an independent documentary film festival "UmutDoc". The pitching of short fiction projects is also gaining special significance: authors can present their ideas to experts and receive professional feedback. The entire structure of Umut Industry is focused on ensuring that participants achieve practical results from the pitching,” Mamytova concluded.

Speaking about the jury composition, the producer noted that it consists of representatives from the film industry and professional platforms who not only evaluate projects but are also ready to provide support. Umut Industry events are open to everyone: both program participants and any interested authors can attend lectures and master classes.
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