Introduction to Jannat Alshanova’s Film "Becoming"
Kazakh director Jannat Alshanova has made her mark in the film industry with her first feature film "Becoming", which premiered at the Locarno International Film Festival. This achievement is especially significant given the diverse nationalities involved in the film’s production. Alshanova’s participation in the festival was a unique experience, and the film’s success has benefited her and her work.
The Concept Behind "Becoming"
The idea for "Becoming" began with Alshanova’s observation that swimming is a sport that can evoke feelings of loneliness, unlike team sports like football. This sparked her interest in exploring the mental spaces of swimmers and the importance of isolation. She started writing a story about swimming in general but eventually focused on open-water swimming, which she found more compelling. Open-water swimming requires endurance and the ability to adapt to changing conditions like weather, water, and currents, making it a powerful metaphor for a story about maturity and goal achievement.
The Film’s Plot
The film "Becoming" is set in modern Kazakhstan and follows the story of 17-year-old Mila, who lives in a chaotic family environment. She finds hope when she is recruited by a team of open-water swimmers led by the enigmatic Coach Vlad. As Mila becomes more invested in the team, she faces a difficult decision when her place is threatened. The film received support from the Red Sea Foundation, which played a crucial role in its production.
The Director’s Vision
Alshanova explained that the film shows the journey of a girl searching for discipline and belonging in an inconsistent world. She drew inspiration from her personal life and social observations in Kazakhstan, where traditional values and liberal paths often intersect. The film’s protagonist, Mila, is forced to balance these contradictions to develop her own moral compass. Alshanova chose actress Tamiri Gangazinova for the lead role, praising her ability to convey emotions and play both a child and a woman.
Overcoming Challenges
The film’s production was not without its challenges. Alshanova noted that the changing weather conditions in Kazakhstan made filming difficult, especially during the cold September days when the cast had to swim in the lake. She thanked the actors and crew for their endurance and dedication to completing the project. The diverse nationalities involved in the film required careful planning, including the selection of a first assistant director from Lithuania who spoke fluent English and Russian.
Collaboration and Support
Alshanova collaborated with French cameraman Caroline Champitier, who brought a rich experience to the project. Champitier’s ability to capture the spirit of Kazakh culture and reflect it in the film’s visual identity was invaluable. The fashion design, led by Lithuanian designer Fausta Naugale, was a collective process that involved the cameraman, art designer, and local costume designer. The result was a visual language rooted in contemporary Kazakh culture.
The Importance of International Support
Alshanova emphasized that the film’s publication would not have been possible without international support. The Red Sea Fund’s intervention was decisive, as it provided a preliminary version of the film that helped advance the production process. The fund’s support also enabled the completion of the post-production phase. Alshanova noted that most support agencies provide conditions regarding expenses, which can determine the heads of work departments. However, she worked with the producer to design a production plan that met these requirements without affecting the project’s essence.
The Film’s Message
Alshanova explained that the film’s story is rooted locally but has no barriers for international audiences. The challenge lies in standardizing a variety of cultural teams. She emphasized the importance of stopping and rethinking one’s direction, even under pressure to advance. A small scene in the film, where Mila’s friend Madena admits that swimming in open water is difficult but reaching the beach is everything, summarizes the film’s meaning and ending.
Future Projects
Alshanova is currently working on her second feature film, entitled "…etc", in the United Kingdom. She confirmed that her passion will remain the guiding force for selecting new projects. The completion of "Becoming" was a victory, and it has opened up opportunities for her to continue creating films that resonate with audiences worldwide.
