UCA Student Develops Tajik Documentary with International Co-Production

Mehrangez Saidmamadova, a UCA student majoring in Communications and Media, continues to excel in documentary filmmaking, building on her earlier success at the prestigious Docmonde master class in Dushanbe. Her current project, a feature documentary exploring the legends of Sarez Lake, has made history as one of the first Tajik documentaries to secure international French-UK co-production.

As previously reported, Mehrangez’s journey began with her project titled 3200, referring to the altitude of Sarez Lake. Her participation in the Docmonde workshop, led by renowned French filmmaker Vladimir Leon, provided her with invaluable training in creative documentary production. Following the workshop, her project was selected as one of two winning proposals from Tajikistan, earning her a spot at the Eurasia co-production meeting in Almaty.

At the Almaty event, Mehrangez pitched her project to a panel of French and Central Asian producers. Despite initial nerves, her pitch resonated strongly, securing co-production agreements with the French company JPL Production and Anisa Sabiri’s UK-based GENERATION Films.

Mehrangez’s creative journey doesn’t stop with her documentary. She has also been commissioned by Ruyò Journal to create a video installation, offering a fresh artistic perspective on the legends of Sarez Lake.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Mehrangez credits UCA for fostering her growth. “Thanks to my major in Communications and Media at UCA, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the intersection of art and science. The support I received enabled me to embark on this incredible journey into the Pamir mountains and beyond.”

Learn more about Mehrangez’s project and achievements here.