Nearly 700 attendees gathered at the Almaty Theatre for a spectacular opening ceremony, setting an inspiring tone for the festival's upcoming days.

The red carpet sparkled with filmmakers, actors, and producers from over 15 countries. This grand event served as a gateway to the cinematic world, where cultures, traditions, and innovative artistry come together.

During the ceremony, Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan, Aida Balayeva, delivered a congratulatory address from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

"Dear friends, I congratulate you on the opening of the 17th Eurasia International Film Festival! This is a unique platform that showcases our culture to the world. This is a unique project that showcases our culture to the world. This year’s celebration is dedicated to the 110th anniversary of the birth of Shaken Aimanov, a luminary of Kazakh cinema, and the 90th anniversary of the Kazakhfilm studio – milestones of great symbolic significance. 

Cinema inspires creativity and innovation in society, instilling the highest qualities and fostering a cultural excellence within the nation. It also strengthens cultural ties between diverse peoples.

Our country places great importance on its domestic film industry, undertaking significant efforts to support its growth. Our filmmakers produce deeply meaningful works, demonstrating skills and artistry that rival those of previous generations. Our films are gaining recognition at prestigious awards worldwide."

Minister Balayeva also highlighted a significant milestone for Kazakhfilm Studio named after Shaken Aimanov, as legislative reforms pave the way for a new chapter in its development.

Starting next year, the Ministry of Culture and Information will have the authority to directly finance the studio. A corresponding bill will be submitted to the President for approval by year-end. Once passed, at least 30% of the national film production budget will be allocated directly to Kazakhfilm.

“This will address many current challenges, preserve the legacy of the film studio, strengthen its financial position, and make its operations more effective. I would like to particularly emphasize that this festival is possible primarily because of the generosity and understanding of our esteemed patrons and sponsors, who, with their noble spirit and deep insight into the situation, have allowed us to organize this significant event without any government funding. In other words, this festival is being held entirely thanks to sponsorship support. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our valued patrons, our friends, for your philosophy of life and your noble mission of advancing art and culture to the masses. I express my profound respect and gratitude to all of you!,” – Balayeva added. 

The ceremony also included a tribute to the legendary Shaken Aimanov, featuring clips from iconic Kazakh films such as Kyz Zhibek, Aldar Kose, Our Dear Doctor, Tomiris, My Name is Kozha, and The Angel in a Skullcap. The evening was enriched by performances from renowned Kazakh artists, including Amre, Madina Sadvakasova, Mezzo, the Aspan group, and the Serper ensemble.

The event culminated with the premiere of We Need a Doctor, a heartfelt family film produced by Kazakh filmmakers.

Running until November 30, the 17th Eurasia International Film Festival offers audiences an opportunity to experience exceptional films, discover emerging talents, and fully immerse themselves in the magic of cinema. Screenings will take place at Kinopark 11 Esentai IMAX, with free admission for all attendees.

The festival is founded and traditionally organized by the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, with the Kazakhfilm Studio named after Shaken Aimanov entrusted with the direct organization of the event, with the support of the Almaty City Akimat.

General partner: Bazis-A Construction Company.

It is notewrothy that sponsors include KAZ Minerals group, Sarens Kazakhstan, Eurasian Resources Group (ERG), Salem Entertainment, the Kinopark Theatres cinema chain, Astana Motors, Kazakhtelecom JSC, and A-Event KZ.

Media Partners: "Khabar" JSC, Qazaqstan TV Channel, NTK TV Channel, Europa Plus Kazakhstan, Eldoradio, Qazaq Gazetteri, Egemen Qazaqstan, Kazakhstanskaya Pravda, Antenna Kazakhstan, New Generation, ORDA, Kazinform International News Agency, Arbat Media, El.kz, Baq.kz, BaigeNews.