- “Silent Cradle” (1994) directed by Yolkin Tuychiev: This drama film is set in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. It tells the story of Firdavs, a young man who searches for his identity and tries to understand his father’s past.
- “The Adopted Son” (1998) directed by Aktan Abdykalykov: Although primarily set in Kyrgyzstan, this acclaimed film includes scenes shot in rural Uzbekistan. It follows the story of a young boy named Jasulan, who is adopted by a Kyrgyz family, exploring themes of identity, family, and culture.
- “Jaslyk” (2000) directed by Alyslan Qalamqashev: Based on a true story, this film depicts the harsh reality of a political prison in Jaslyk, Uzbekistan. It sheds light on human rights abuses and the struggle for freedom in the country.
- “Shiraz” (1928) directed by Franz Osten: Although a silent film, “Shiraz” is a classic set in India, with some scenes shot in Samarkand. It tells a love story inspired by the construction of the Taj Mahal, highlighting the beauty of both Indian and Uzbek architecture.
- These movies offer glimpses into the culture, history, and landscapes of Uzbekistan
- “The Day Lasts More Than a Hundred Years” (Kun-oyog’ing bir kuni katta yog’ingdan ham uzun) by Chingiz Aitmatov: While the majority of the novel is set in Kazakhstan, it also includes scenes set in Uzbekistan. Aitmatov, a renowned Central Asian writer, weaves a complex narrative that explores the themes of time, tradition, and the clash between modernity and ancient cultures.
- “The Railway” (Qoʻrgʻoshinlar) by Hamid Ismailov: Set against the backdrop of the Great Game, this novel takes place on the Trans-Caspian Railway in the late 19th century. Ismailov skillfully blends history, love, and adventure in a tale that captures the essence of Uzbekistan’s crossroads position between East and West.
- “The Devil’s Dance” (Shaytanat) by Ahmad Abdulhamidov: This contemporary novel portrays the life of a master puppeteer, Khudoiberdi, who travels across Uzbekistan performing traditional puppet shows. Through Khudoiberdi, the author delves into the struggle between tradition and modernity, as well as the changing landscape of Uzbek society.
- “White Sun of the Desert” (Beloye solntse pustyni) by Valentin Pikul: This beloved Soviet-era adventure novel is set in Central Asia, including Uzbekistan. It follows the story of Fyodor Sukhov, a Red Army soldier who faces various challenges, including encounters with local tribes and the intrigues of the Civil War era.
- “And We, Blossom Like a Rose” (Va biz, gullar kabi sardik) by Hamid Utkur: Set in modern-day Uzbekistan, this novel delves into the lives of three women from different generations struggling with love, identity, and societal expectations. With a focus on female empowerment, Utkur explores the complexity of relationships and the role of women in Uzbek society.
WANDERLIST: Uzbekistan in books and on film
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