Development of film tourism: negotiations held in Cannes
Kazakhstan has the potential to develop film tourism and become a promising location for the global film community. Negotiations are currently underway with leading industry representatives on the development of international co-productions.
Media tourism ambassador Nadira Akhonova, together with American screenwriter and actor Trevor Morgan Doyle, held a series of meetings with representatives of major streaming platforms and prominent production centers at the Cannes Film Festival with the aim of launching transnational film projects.
Among the promising directions is a collaboration with Spanish director Martín Rosete, known for his work in genre cinema. Discussions are ongoing regarding the filming of a joint project in the Canary Islands and Kazakhstan, which opens up new creative and logistical opportunities.
A project based on the true story of Simo Häyhä is generating significant interest. The film is set during the years 1939–1940 and requires authentic visual imagery. Kazakhstan is being considered as a filming location due to its diverse natural landscapes.
«Among the potential locations are the forested areas of the Altai region, particularly the surroundings of Ridder and Ust-Kamenogorsk, which resemble the landscapes of Karelia. The Burabay resort area is also under consideration, offering both scenic nature and convenient logistics. The experiences of New Zealand (‘The Lord of the Rings’) and Croatia (‘Game of Thrones’) demonstrate how cinema can enhance the tourist appeal of a region», - noted Nadira Akhonova.
