Kazakhstan’s Animation Industry Thrives as it Commemorates Animator Amen Khaidarov’s 100-Year Legacy
Kazakhstan’s Kazakhfilm studio recently organized a special event to commemorate the centenary since the birth of Amen Khaidarov, the nation’s pioneer animator. The event held on June 3 in Almaty was attended by veterans of the domestic animation industry who had contributed significantly to Kazakh animation’s development. Among the attendees was Tamara Mukanova, the animation film director who worked closely with Khaidarov, and Zira Nauryzbay, a culture expert who co-wrote the script for “The Tree of Amen Aga,” an animated short film about Khaidarov’s life, work, and the difficulties he faced during filming. The plot of the film is based on memories and information from “When Fairy Tales Come to Life” book by Baurzhan Nugerbekov.
Khaidarov’s contribution to the Kazakh animation industry started in 1967 when he released the country’s first animated movie, “Why the Swallow Has the Tail with Little Horns?” The animation project was based on a fairy tale and became popular worldwide. Khaidarov’s other works included “Aksak Kulan,” “Tail,” “Khoja-Nasyr – Builder,” “Sunny Bunny,” and “Forty Fables.” His works were connected with national folklore, fine arts, and music, making them beloved classics.
The Kazakh animation industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with many local animation studios producing high-quality content that has gained recognition worldwide. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the production of animated films almost stopped, and foreign cartoons filled the country’s TV screens. The Kazakh government has been supporting the animation industry by providing new initiatives and funding programs. Last year, the Ministry of Culture and Sports launched Kazakh Animation Сreative Association to improve the skills of domestic animation specialists and provide support in designing animation projects.
The new wave of animated works focuses on two themes – folklore and contemporary subjects. The industry has seen the release of several full-length animated films, including “Er Tostik and Aydahar,” “Kultegin,” and “Muzbalak.” Turdybek Maidan’s “Muzbalak” even won the best animation film award at the Swedish Stockholm Film & Television Festival and the Indian Golden Bee international children’s film festival in 2020. Additionally, there are several animated series such as “Aldar Kose” by Azia Animation Production and “Dala Shyrqauy” by Tasqyn Studio.
Through the Kazakhfilm studio, Kazakhstan is working on the creation of “Altyn Adam,” its first full-length animated film. The movie tells the story of the adventures of a Saka boy who goes to Khan Tengri Peak in search of the Fire of Life, fights with enemies, and becomes a real warrior. People called him Altyn Adam (golden man) for his brave spirit.
The Kazakh animation industry is on a growth trajectory, and with the government’s support and a pool of talented artists, it’s expected to produce more quality animated content.
