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Almaty akimat plans 5.5-hectare theme park on Kazakhfilm studio land

1 min
Almaty akimat plans 5.5-hectare theme park on Kazakhfilm studio land

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Almaty's akimat has decided to build a 5.5-hectare entertainment theme park on the territory of Kazakhfilm, the state-owned national film studio. Filmmakers warn the move could end domestic film production by depriving the industry of its main shooting base. The dispute over the studio's land has lasted nearly 20 years.

Key Facts

  • Almaty's akimat plans a 5.5-hectare entertainment theme park on Kazakhfilm's territory.
  • The land dispute over Kazakhfilm has lasted nearly 20 years.
  • Kazakhfilm is a joint-stock company with 100% state ownership.
  • Between 2002 and 2007, authorities attempted to transfer almost 18 hectares to a private investor for similar construction.
  • The Ministry of Culture and Information and city authorities have not clearly stated whose interests are being protected in the land transfer.

The Land Dispute

The dispute over Kazakhfilm's territory has lasted nearly 20 years. Between 2002 and 2007, authorities attempted to transfer almost 18 hectares to a private investor for similar construction. A promise was recorded to build a film complex near Talgar, but the transfer was suspended. The current plan involves a park zone with interactive screens and lawns, not directly connected to film production.

Filmmakers' Concerns

Filmmakers fear the park will end domestic film production by leaving no place to shoot. They argue that mismanagement and lack of leadership have already caused Kazakhstan to fall behind neighboring Kyrgyzstan in festival success. One anonymous director noted that major festivals like Eurasia and Stars of Shaken have not been held for several years. The director said inviting festival selectors and international journalists would be easier than promoting films one by one.

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