Kazakhstan has chosen the film that will represent the country at the 99th Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Awards. The national candidate in the Best International Feature Film category is the drama "Äbil," directed by Yelzat Yeskendir, set against the backdrop of the changes sweeping Kazakhstan in the 1990s, according to infohub.kz.
The story takes viewers back to 1993. The country is undergoing sweeping social and economic transformation, and the protagonist, a shepherd named Äbil, faces the new reality of privatization after the collective farm is disbanded. He must not only adapt to the new rules but also defend his own dignity.
The lead role was played by Yerlan Töleutai, while the director of photography was Polish cinematographer Jolanta Dylewska. Kazakhstan's Oscar committee specifically praised the film's artistic and visual quality.
"A powerful, truly cinematic work. A wonderful acting duo — the protagonist and his wife," said Anara Kashaganova, a member of Kazakhstan's Oscar committee and a producer.
Cinematographer Kazbek Amerzhanov also praised the camerawork, calling it restrained and almost invisible, yet masterful. According to him, the film leaves a cohesive and powerful impression.
Earlier, Kursiv LifeStyle published an extensive review of "Äbil." The film's world premiere took place at the Busan International Film Festival. It subsequently won a number of awards at festivals in France, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam and Bangladesh. It was released in Kazakhstani theaters in June 2026.