Tashkent hosted the 15th International Film Festival “Pearl of the Silk Road”.

A closing ceremony took place in Samarkand. UzA correspondents interviewed film festival participants.

Pietro Marcello, Film Director (Italy):

– The film festival was held at a high level. I have dreamed of seeing your country for many years. I was in Kazakhstan and other countries of Central Asia. Such a film festival is important because it brings together creative people and inspires them to new searches. This promotes the exchange of experience and strengthens international cultural ties. I am happy that I participated in this film festival.

Natalya Varley, actress (Russia):

– I liked the organization of the festival in Samarkand. However, I did not have enough time to see the city’s sights. Now I want to come to Samarkand again, but as a tourist. I was delighted with the students’ passion for the profession. I saw this during a masterclass organized for students of the Tashkent branch of the Russian State University of Cinematography. They can be called the future of cinema.

Samy Naceri, actor (France):

– The festival’s organization, chosen location, program, and Uzbek hospitality were wonderful. This was my first time visiting Uzbekistan. However, I have plans to come here to implement various projects. Registan Square left a great impression. I also really liked Tashkent.

Shokir Kholikov, director (Uzbekistan):

– I presented the film “Sunday” at the film festival. The world premiere of this film took place at the Shanghai International Film Festival. There, I won the “Best Film” category. This is my second film festival, and I also won the “Best Film” category here. I’m pleased about this.

Interviewed by Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, Doniyor Yoqubov, UzA