Abai University hosted an insightful cultural meeting titled "National Identity and Cinema" featuring the creative team of the feature film "Boran". The event was attended by film director Sabit Kurmanbek, screenwriter Erbol Boranshy, cinematographer Zhenis Ekpin, and production designers Kaster Omirbek and Zhambyl Kurmash. Faculty members and students from the Foundation Faculty gathered for the occasion.

The primary objective of the meeting was to broaden the cultural and educational horizons of the youth studying at the faculty and to promote the preservation of Kazakh national identity. The film serves as an inspiration for students to appreciate the value of education and art and encourages them to pursue successful careers in their historic homeland.

Produced by order of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, "Boran" is considered one of the most profound works of contemporary domestic cinematography. The film had its world premiere at the "Eurasia" International Film Festival in 2022 and was officially released in theaters in 2023.

The plot is set in the 1980s and follows the destiny of a young man living in a village near the border with China. Through the story of the protagonist, who gets lost during a blizzard and finds refuge in the house of a Kazakh elder across the border, the film artistically depicts the shared destiny and spiritual connection of Kazakhs living on both sides. The work masterfully conveys that concepts of humanity, kindness, and bravery transcend both time and space.

During the meeting, an engaging discussion took place regarding the film's core concept, the filming process, and the creative journey. The production team highlighted the technical challenges and professional hardships of filming in harsh weather conditions, specifically in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, they discussed professional techniques for conveying deep symbolism through cinematography, color grading, and editing. Students actively participated by asking questions and gaining insights into the intricacies of filmmaking.

Musical interludes prepared by talented students added a vibrant touch to the evening, creating an uplifting atmosphere for the guests.

Abai University Media Center