Caspian Media Forum participants propose joint film production

Cinema plays a vital role in fostering global dialogue and broadening horizons by introducing audiences to the cultures of other countries, said Kamala Mammadova, the editor-in-chief of the Azerbaijani portal 1news.az, who spoke at the session titled "Cinema as a Universal Language of Communication" at the 9th Caspian Media Forum, according to Report.

"Modern Azerbaijani cinema is actively developing and striving to find its place in the international arena, combining traditions and innovations," Mammadova stated. "Today, Azerbaijani cinematography covers a wide range of topics. Our film directors work in both traditional genres, such as drama and comedy, and more experimental forms, including documentaries and feature films that raise pressing social and cultural issues."

Mammadova noted that in recent years, the Azerbaijani film industry has expanded its use of new technologies, enabling the creation of higher-quality products capable of competing on the international stage. Additionally, cooperation with filmmakers from various countries is actively developing. The speaker also pointed out that Azerbaijan remains a popular location for foreign film shoots.

Renowned Uzbek actor and director Rustam Sagdulayev emphasized the need to revive joint film production among the Caspian countries, stating that "one cannot stew in their own juice." He stressed that to bring good cinema to world markets, it is necessary to combine efforts and create good films together.

Baurzhan Shukenov, Deputy Chairman of the Board for Production at the State Center for Support of National Cinema, noted that the Caspian countries have minimal contact and cooperation in the field of cinematography. He suggested that signing a memorandum of cooperation in the sphere of cinematography could significantly facilitate the production of joint films and attract financing from other Caspian states. "This memorandum creates the prerequisites and framework for joint creativity," Shukenov said.

Shukenov also highlighted the importance of establishing a commercial cinema chain, allowing the Caspian countries to sell their films to each other and generate revenue. "This component is missing, and it would be beneficial to develop and implement it," he remarked.