Madalena Abdrakmanova

Young Altyn eagerly leaves pastoral life behind for the modern comforts of the capital, but soon finds a corrupted society clashing with the values of her ancestors when confronted with an unexpected pregnancy. Mine development, melting glaciers and the loss of tradition are prominent symptoms of the current transformation of Kyrgyzstan, a country not often represented on the big screen.

Set in the vibrant, transitional period of 1990s Bishkek, Maksat, a young street-smart boxer with a tender heart, and Aisulu, a kind and principled university student from a respectable family. Despite coming from vastly different worlds — Maksat being an orphan and Aisulu having a privileged upbringing — the two fall in love. Their romance unfolds through everyday moments: strolls in the park, house parties, and small but meaningful gestures, such as gifting chewing gum. Their bond grows stronger in the face of social pressure and parental disapproval, especially as Aisulu is being pushed towards marriage with Tilek, a deceptive, self-serving man who doesn't love Aisulu. As the film merges the past and present, we follow the couple into old age, witnessing a love that endures all obstacles and hardships that come their way.