Ernest Abdyzhaparov

1 July 2024
Film Director

Film director, screenwriter, and producer from Kyrgyzstan. Born in Frunze (Bishkek) in Kyrgyzstan on February 27, 1961. He studied at the Institute for Russian language and Culture and subsequently worked as a schoolteacher for five years. He joined Kyrgyzfilm Studios as a production manager and location manager in 1988; in the same period he also worked on a satirical film magazine named "Korogoch". He later became an editor and assistant director and has now been working as a director since 1993. Saratan marks his debut as a feature film director.

Since 1992 he has been the editor of the Kirgizfilm studio, and since the next year he has been the head of the youth creative fund "Umai". In 1999, Abdyzhaparov established his own studio. From 1999 to 2001 he was the secretary of the Union of Cinematographers of Kyrgyzstan, from 2001 to 2002 he was the chief editor of the Kyrgyzfilm studio. He has made 20 short and 14 feature films. Has more than 50 awards at various international festivals. 

Abdyjaparov's filmography includes a variety of genres, demonstrating his versatility and creativity in filmmaking. Some of his most acclaimed works include:
1.  "Saratan" (2004) - A comedy-drama that provides a satirical look at life in a small Kyrgyz village.
2.  "Pure Coolness" (2007) - A drama for which he served as both director and screenwriter. The film is well-regarded for its portrayal of rural Kyrgyz life and cultural traditions.
3.  "Taxi and Telephone" (2013) - A drama directed, written, and produced by Abdyjaparov, showcasing his multifaceted talent in filmmaking.
4.  "Heavenly Nomadic" (2015) - As a writer, he contributed to this drama which explores the nomadic lifestyle in Kyrgyzstan.
5.  "Sayakbai. Homer of the 20th century." (2017)
6.  "Running to the Sky" (2019) - Another significant work he was involved in as a writer, focusing on the aspirations and challenges of a young athlete in a Kyrgyz village.
7.  "Sagynbai manaschy" (2021)

Throughout his career, Abdyjaparov has been involved in various aspects of film production, including acting, composing, and camera work. His dedication to depicting Kyrgyz culture and societal issues through cinema has earned him a prominent place in the film industry, both locally and internationally.