| In Pursuit of Spring | |
|---|---|
| Promotional poster | |
| Uzbek | Bahorni quvib |
| Directed by | Ayub Shahobiddinov |
| Screenplay by | Erkin A’zam |
| Starring |
|
| Cinematography | Diyor Ismatov |
| Edited by | Ziyodulla Adashev |
| Music by | Ubaydullo Karimov |
Production company | Uzbekfilm Dilshoh Media |
Release date |
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Running time | 82 minutes |
| Country | Uzbekistan |
| Language | Uzbek |
In Pursuit of Spring (Uzbek : Bahorni quvib) is a 2025 Uzbek psychological drama film directed by Ayub Shahobiddinov and produced by Uzbekfilm. The film starring Ra'no Shodiyeva, Ilhom Berdiyev, and Anvar Kartayev had its world premiere at SCO Film Festival in China, where it won Best Actress award. [1] The film explores the story of a woman returning to her homeland after years of exile, confronting the emotional consequences of loss, memory, and social judgment.
In Pursuit of Spring received critical acclaim and international recognition, including awards for Best Actress and Best Screenplay at the VI Lendoc Film Festival in 2025. [2] [3] It will be presented at 56th International Film Festival of India in 'Cinema of World category' on 22 November 2025. [4]
Rohat Shukurova returns to a remote village of Archali after decades of exile and personal hardship. Haunted by memories of Soviet-era scandal that destroyed her youth and love, she must face the social and emotional scars left behind. As she reconnects with her community, the film unfolds as an intimate portrait of resilience, forgiveness, and the search for peace. [5]
The screenplay was written by the prominent Uzbek author Erkin A’zam, adapting themes of moral endurance and the human cost of exile. [6]
Filming took place primarily in Boysun District, known for its traditional landscapes and historical depth. [7] Director Ayub Shahobiddinov emphasized authenticity in visual tone and atmosphere, supported by cinematographer Diyor Ismatov. [8]
The production was commissioned by the Kinematografiya agentligi (Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan) and produced through the national studio Uzbekfilm. [9]
Bahorni Quvib premiered at Bishkek International Film Festival in Kyrgyzstan in June 2025. It was subsequently screened at several international film festivals throughout 2025. [10] [11]
| Date | Festival Name | Location |
|---|---|---|
| June 2025 | Bishkek International Film Festival | Kyrgyzstan |
| July 2025 | SCO Film Festival | China |
| August 2025 | International Film Festival Antares | Russia |
| Lendoc Film Festival (LEFF) | ||
| September 2025 | Arts Lumière Indonesia Festival | Indonesia |
| October 2025 | Korkut Ata Film Festival | Kazakhstan |
| Toji Somon International Film Festival | Tajikistan | |
| November 2025 | Listapad Film Festival | Belarus |
| International Film Festival of India (IFFI) | India | |
| December 2025 | Toronto Global Film Festival | Canada |
| January 2026 | Dhaka International Film Festival | Bangladesh |
Uzbek critics praised the film’s emotional depth and naturalistic portrayal of rural life. The cultural magazine Oyina described it as “a deeply human story about repentance and reconciliation,” highlighting Ra'no Shodiyeva’s performance as one of her career bests. [12] The film uses psychological realism and symbolic imagery to depict the inner conflict between memory and forgiveness. Its pacing and cinematography reflect the passing of time and emotional isolation. Director Shahobiddinov’s minimalist style focuses on internal struggle rather than external conflict, making In Pursuit of Spring a quiet yet powerful entry in contemporary Uzbek cinema. [13]
In Pursuit of Spring received numerous awards in different categories throughout its premiere in festivals. [14]
| Year | Award | Category | Recipient | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | III Bishkek International Film Festival | Best Film | Ayub Shahobiddinov | Nominated | [15] |
| SCO Film Festival | Best Actress | Ra'no Shodiyeva | Won | [16] | |
| II Antares International Film Festival | Best Feature Film | Ayub Shahobiddinov | Won | [17] [18] | |
| Best Male Actor | Ilhom Berdiyev | Won | |||
| Best Screenplay | Erkin A'zam | Won | |||
| Best Male Supporting Actor | Anvar Karteyev | Won | |||
| VI Lendoc International Film Festival | Best Screenplay | Erkin A'zam | Won | [19] | |
| Best Actress | Ra'no Shodiyeva | Won |