Kyrgyz Director Denied Festival Screening Without Explanation Amid Censorship Concerns

Kyrgyz film director and producer Erke Jumakmatova expressed frustration over the unexplained ban of her film "Kuraq" from the Bishkek International Film Festival. Despite the film's international success, including a grand prix in Bangladesh and screenings in Busan and France, it was prohibited from showing domestically without any official documentation or explanation from the Department of Cinematography.

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I still haven't been officially explained why the film was banned. There is no document, no explanation, no position from the department of cinematography.

Jumakmatova suggested that the film touches on societal issues that make people uncomfortable, particularly concerning violence against women. She stated, "We are not afraid of violence against women, but of her voice." The director believes that while violence itself may not be seen as a threat to the social order, a woman finding her voice becomes dangerous, challenging patriarchal norms and control.

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We are not afraid of violence against women, but of her voice.

The paradox of the ban is amplified by the film's reception abroad. "The film received a grand prix in a country with stricter censorship," Jumakmatova noted, referring to Bangladesh. She explained that international audiences connected with the film, recognizing their own societal problems, and that art serves to highlight these issues rather than shame a country.

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The film received a grand prix in Bangladesh, a country with much stricter censorship than ours. They showed the film, appreciated it, and awarded it.

The situation is further complicated by the recent death of the film's co-author, Emil Atageldyev. Many believed the film should have been shown out of respect for his memory, adding a layer of personal pain for Jumakmatova and those close to him. The director feels the decision disregarded the emotional significance of the screening for Atageldyev's family and friends. Jumakmatova is convinced the "sabotage" began long before the festival, indicating a deliberate effort to prevent the film's screening.

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Art works precisely like this. It does not humiliate the country. It helps society see its own problems.