The Uzbekistani film “In Pursuit of Spring,” directed by Ayub Shahobiddinov, was presented in a press conference on Friday, 28 November at Honar Shahr Aftab Cineplex in Shiraz. The film is one of the entries competing in the Eastern Vista section of the 43rd Fajr International Film Festival.
Set against the breathtaking mountains of Archaly, Uzbekistan, “In Pursuit of Spring” follows Rahat Shukurova, a former teacher who returns to her mountain village after receiving painful news. As she confronts buried secrets and past wounds, she must navigate the scars left by a figure who abused their position of power during the Soviet era.
Shahobiddinov explained that the film reflects on a period in Soviet history when freedom was tightly controlled. “In this film, a government official exploits his position to destroy the life of the main character,” he said. “Rahat’s journey is painful, but through accepting her suffering, she seeks to reclaim her own life.”
The director described the symbolic power of the film’s landscapes, noting a pivotal scene where Rahat climbs a hill to reach a solitary cypress tree, representing her endurance and determination. He added, “This film is also about returning to love. Despite being exiled and facing heartbreak caused by that official, she remains faithful to her past love. There is a moment in the cemetery where she visits the grave of her lost love—it is as if she tells him, ‘I have returned. Our love was incomplete, but I remained loyal.’”
Shahobiddinov also discussed the production process, noting that in Uzbekistan, a government cultural council approves scripts and provides funding. “If your screenplay is not approved, you must find a private investor. In any case, state funding requires official approval, which may or may not be granted. My film was produced with government support.”
The cast includes Ra’no Shodieva, Ilhom Berdiyev, Farina Oybekzoda, Bahora Arslanova, and Ra’no Ahmadjonova.
The 43rd Fajr International Film Festival continues in Shiraz, bringing together filmmakers, critics, and audiences from around the world for screenings, panels, and cultural events celebrating global cinema.
