Kazakh movie director's film up for coveted recognition in the Big Apple.
The poignant Kazakhstani documentary film "Cookies for Her Father, My Great-Grandfather, Her Grandfather" by director Aлина Мустафина is making waves on the international film circuit. This road movie, which explores themes of family, memory, history, and cultural heritage, has been shortlisted for the "Emerging Director in Documentary Film" award at the upcoming Asian American International Film Festival.
The film follows a journey of three generations of Kazakh women as they travel to Poland to visit the grave of their great-grandfather who perished in World War II. Along the way, they delve into deep connections between different generations, the transmission of memories and traditions, and the importance of preserving cultural practices in a modernizing world.
The film has already garnered significant recognition, winning the president's award for outstanding debut at the "Baqytty" festival in Kazakhstan, and the grand prize for best film at the Cinema Verite festival in Iran. It also had its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival in South Korea and enjoyed a special screening at the ORAI Festival. The European premiere took place in Turin, Italy, and the film was also showcased at the Bolzano Film Festival Bozen.
The Asian American International Film Festival, which takes place from July 31 to August 10 in New York, will be a significant milestone for the film. The awards ceremony for the festival will be held on August 10 in Manhattan. The film's inclusion in the festival signifies its broader appeal and relevance to audiences beyond Kazakhstan.
The film's exploration of themes such as root-seeking, identity, continuity, and reinterpreting the past resonates with many, making it a compelling watch for a general audience. The film's poignant depiction of familial love and memory enduring over time, amidst changing social and historical contexts, is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal human experience.
Out of the 12 documentaries showcased from around the world at the Asian American International Film Festival, only three were nominated for awards. The competition is fierce, but the Kazakhstani documentary holds its ground, promising a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience.
As the film continues its journey on the international film festival circuit, it serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving family histories and cultural heritage, and the enduring power of love and memory across generations.
The compelling "Cookies for Her Father, My Great-Grandfather, Her Grandfather" by Aлина Мустафиna, a road movie that delves into themes of family, memory, history, and cultural heritage, has been nominated for the "Emerging Director in Documentary Film" award at the Asian American International Film Festival, which encompasses the genres of movies-and-tv and entertainment. After receiving significant recognition and accolades at various international film festivals, this film serves as a testament to its broader appeal and relevance to audiences, making it a must-watch within the community of movies-and-tv and entertainment.
