Uzbek Filmmakers to Tell the Story of Makhtumkuli in New Film
Filmmakers from Uzbekistan have embarked on a new project, shooting a film about the renowned poet Makhtumkuli Fragi in Turkmenistan. Led by director Muzaffarkhan Erkinov, the film crew has arrived in Turkmenistan for this exciting endeavor.
Collaborating with the Turkmenfilm Association and the National Center for the Development of Cinematography of Uzbekistan, the film production involves actors from both Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The role of the main character, Makhtumkuli, has been entrusted to the talented Turkmen actor Akhmet Amandurdiyev, who previously won the “Best Actor” award for his performance in the melodrama “Red Apple” at the III International Film Festival of the Turkic World “Korkut Ata” in 2023.
Filming in Turkmenistan is set to take place in the scenic locations of the Ak Bugday etrap of Ahal velayat and in the town of Gurykhovdan until June 29. Subsequently, the filmmakers will continue their work in Uzbekistan, focusing on the historic cities of Bukhara and Khiva where the main events of the film unfold.
The script for the film was co-authored by Ore Dashgynov and Rakhymberdi Annagulyev. In addition to Akhmet Amandurdiyev, the cast includes esteemed actors such as People’s Artist of Turkmenistan Chary Berdiev (portraying Azadi), Dovlet Berdiyev, Muhammetguly Kasymov, and Orazgeldi Durdiyev.
The collaboration between Turkmen and Uzbek filmmakers for this project was formalized at the media forum “Turkmen Land – the Center of Civilizations,” which took place in Ashgabat in March 2024. This joint effort promises to bring Makhtumkuli Fragi’s story to life on the silver screen, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of both Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
