Isarkies DOC Award

First of all, we would like to say thank you! Over the past few weeks, we have had the privilege of watching so many wonderful films, and we remain deeply moved and grateful to have been able to witness so many stories. Today, in the Documentary Film category, we would like to honour a film that, with great sensitivity, takes us behind the closed doors of a family. Through the eyes of a mother torn between fear and rejection, we gain an insight into the life of a young person whose identity is socially taboo. In Kazakhstan, a country with strict social norms and political restrictions, the fear of social exclusion and violence is ever-present. Being a drag queen on stage here means playing with one’s life. The tension between closeness and conflict between mother and child makes this film a poignant reflection of the reality faced by many people caught between self-determination and conformity. This longing for space within societal constraints is also evident in Paul Hirschauer magnificent cinematography. With her touching narrative, the director succeeds in creating a beautiful film. Or, as one says in Kazakh for ‘beautiful’: ADEMI.
Warmest congratulations to Zhamilya Sakhari and the entire team behind ‘ADEMI’!