
Sanzhar Madiyev Stars in Kazakhstan’s Oscar Nom for Best Foreign Film
Oct. 5, 2016
New York Film Academy alumnus
Sanzhar Madiyev has become one of the most sought-after actors in his home country of Kazakhstan. Madiyev
has appeared in both film and television projects, including “Khod Konem” (Armenia/Kazakhstan) directed by Gor
Kirakosian, “The Way Home” (Kazakhstan) directed by Rashid Suleimenov, the TV series “Marco Polo” (USA),
“Hunting the Phantom” (Kazakhstan) directed by Marina Kunarova, “Amanat” (Kazakhstan) directed by Satybaldy
Narymbetov, “Married at 30” (Kazakhstan) directed by New York Film Academy alumnus, and “Zaschitniki”
(Russia) directed by Sarik Andreasyan.
Earlier this year, Madiyev spoke at the New York Film
Academy Los Angeles’ campus, where he said, “You have to believe in your dreams and never doubt them. It’s also
important to be among people with similar interests. The spirit of NYFA helped me a lot — do not give up.”
Recently, the
Hollywood Reporter announced that one of his latest films, “Amanat,” directed by Satybaldy
Narymbetov, where Sanzhar plays Kenesary Khan, has been selected by Kazakhstan as its Best Foreign Film
nomination for the 2017 Academy Awards.
“Amanat” premiered in Kazakhstan in May and was produced by Arman Asenov and Kazakhfilm Studios.
A story that spans three periods in Kazakh history, the film links mid-19th century struggles against the
Russians to two 20th century episodes revolving around the fate of former political prisoner Ermukhan
Bekmakhanov. Bekmakhanov was sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment for writing historical books about Kazakh
national hero Kenesary Kasymov and his national liberation movement.
Kazakhstan's annual international film festival, Eurasia, where “Amanat” recently screened, noted the film
brings to life "the forgotten names of the true sons of the Kazakh people … designating the true parameters
of the spiritual power of the people."