A Dark, Dark Man

In a village in Kazakhstan, detective Bekzat's lazy, cowardly superior assigns him to kill a suspect – a common occurrence in this fearful, corrupt society. The routine job is ruined by fearless journalist Ariana who insists the case be properly investigated. Bekzat, caught in a mafia web of bribery, blackmail and intimidation, sets out with a curious entourage and the necessary reluctance, gradually regaining his moral compass.

This jet-black, comedy-drenched, anti-Hollywood action film consists of carefully framed shots with sometimes almost imperceptible camera movement. The barren corn fields, decrepit police offices and run-down barns provide the backdrop for scenes of grim beauty, for bizarre conversations, extreme violence and developing emotions. The film reveals how a despotic society is based on a vicious circle of fear and greed that can only be interrupted by courage and insight.