In 2025, the film QAITADAN, produced with state support, became one of the highest-grossing films in Kazakhstan’s cinema industry. During its theatrical run, the film earned over 1 billion tenge. It fully repaid the public funds invested in its production and exceeded them fivefold. This case became a clear example of how state support can generate real returns and build audience trust in domestic cinema.
Following instructions from the Head of State, the Ministry of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan is currently working on amendments to the Law on Cinematography. The proposed changes are aimed at improving pre-release expert review procedures and enhancing the overall quality of national films.
One of the key achievements of the year was the resumption of state support for the Kazakhfilm studio. The studio continues work on restoring the Golden Collection of Kazakh cinema.
At the same time, renovation of Kazakhfilm’s facilities has begun. For the first time in 15 years, repairs are being carried out with the participation of the private sector. The project is being implemented entirely through attracted funds.
Sixteen new projects were selected as winners of the competition announced by the State Center for Support of National Cinema. Among them are films focused on historical and patriotic themes, in line with the Head of State’s instructions and the growing audience demand for such content.
In 2025, ten domestic films were released in cinemas, including 90+1, Tarlan, Gamer Girl, Captain Baitasov, QAITADAN, the animated film Altyn Adam, and others.
The significance of QAITADAN’s success was emphasized by its director, Duman Yerkimbek, who noted:
“Thanks to state support, Qaitadan had the honor of opening the Korkyt Ata Festival in Aktau and also became the opening film of the Week of Kazakh Cinema in Rome. In addition, I had the opportunity to complete an internship in China under the Shanghai Cooperation Organization program for young directors and producers. State support provided to the younger generation opens the way to new goals and creates opportunities for the development of Kazakh cinema at a new level.”
Kazakh films such as Bauyryna Salu, Citizens of the Roof, Gingerbread for Her Dad, Kazhymukan, Becoming, and others were showcased and received more than 30 prestigious awards at international film festivals in the United States, Russia, France, Italy, China, and other countries.
Special recognition was given to actor Bakhyt Khajibayev, who won the Best Actor award at the SCO Film Festival. The festival took place in Chongqing, where Khadzhiibayev presented his work in the film Operation Nabat.
In August, Kazakhstan took part in the SCO Countries’ Film Week in Qingdao. The program included the films Ademoka’s Education and Brothers.
Days of Kazakh Cinema were held in more than 15 countries, including Greece, Kyrgyzstan, Albania, France, Norway, Italy, the Czech Republic, Japan, Turkey, Singapore, Azerbaijan, Russia, Belgium, Uzbekistan, and others.