July in Kazakhstan sees the highly-anticipated debut in a full feature film of the legendary stage actor, Zhusip Aqshora, as he stars in the satirical comedy, Sansyz Bai.
16 July sees the film premiere across the whole country, with cinemas everywhere expected to be packed out as this respected actor of the Shanshar Theatre takes a leading role for the first time in a longer screen production.
Sansyz Bai will be a chance for the talented Kazakh thespian to prove himself in a new kind of picture, after many years building a reputation as one of the leading comedic actors in his homeland. Despite having dozens of theatrical shows already listed on his CV, his debut on the big screen proved a challenge in many new ways, and according to Aqshora himself, working on the film called for total commitment and dedication, not to mention perseverance when he picked up a few knocks on set.
Despite the injuries, including bruised ribs and a cut eyebrow, Zhusip Aqshora kept his focus and the production was completed on schedule.
Those tempted to go along and see the 79-minute film might be interested to know a little about the plot, no more than a little, perhaps. Spoiler alert, the film is really good 😉 It explores themes of human greed, family values, and generational conflict and is a blend of humour, vibrant characters, and unexpected plot twists.
The plot centres on a wealthy farmer called Sansyzbai Daukaraev whose comfortable life take a tumble when his accountant hits him with a demand for better pay, in global terms, an increase from $420 to $6,300 a month, because, wait for it, he wants to marry a woman who may be too difficult to keep happy on the lower income.
After some cunning mind games on the part of Arnat, the accountant, the farmer agrees, only to find that this is not the end of his machinations, and that, wait for it once more, the sly book-keeper really wants to marry the farmer’s daughter. And nor will he take no for an answer.
Local people will be familiar with the names of those involved with the making of this film, director Aibek Nigmet also makes his debut making satire and comedy, while blogger Malika Kaldarbek has a prominent role, alongside popular Aktau prankster Samat Yesenuly, as well as actors Bekzat Zhunіs (Al-Farabi), Laura Sabitova (Ystyk Uya), Alma Khalmukhanova (Kyzym, Taptym-au Senі 2), Yelikay Zhumabek, and Mukhtar Kapalbaev.
The film opens on 16 July across the whole of Kazakhstan.
