“We Live Here,” directed by Zhanna Kurmasheva, is a documentary showcasing the enduring legacy of a former Soviet nuclear test site in Kazakhstan. Set to premiere at CPH:DOX, it follows three generations grappling with the aftermath of 456 nuclear tests. The film emphasizes the urgency of addressing historical injustices, societal indifference, and environmental issues, while also exploring the cultural significance of the land.
The documentary “We Live Here,” directed by Zhanna Kurmasheva, explores the ongoing legacy of a former Soviet nuclear test site in Kazakhstan. Set against a haunting backdrop, the film portrays the struggles of three generations grappling with the consequences of historical nuclear activity while hoping for a better future. World premiering at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen, this marks a significant milestone as the inaugural Kazakhstani film at the festival, competing among twelve entries in the Dox:Award international lineup.
The Semipalatinsk test site experienced 456 nuclear tests between 1949 and 1991, leaving behind radioactive contamination. The film’s narrative illustrates the resolve of locals, particularly a couple searching for answers regarding their daughter’s health, which they attribute to radiation exposure. Kurmasheva’s cinematic portrayal deeply connects the local environment to broader existential themes, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the collective experience of the past.
Kurmasheva reflects on the societal fatigue surrounding discussions of nuclear testing in Kazakhstan, noting that many locals feel disenchanted as progress remains elusive. For her, understanding this legacy is more than sorrow; it involves confronting the issues head-on. Through personal ties to the region, she underlines the necessity for dialogue and awareness about the impact of historical injustices on present generations.
The director vividly describes her initial arrival at the test site, where the atmosphere felt uniquely different, stripping away the comfort of familiarity. She articulates a profound disquiet about societal indifference to the suffering caused by the Soviet Union’s actions. The documentary raises critical questions about responsibility and empathy within her community, reflecting on humanity’s broader capacity to care for each other.
Ramazanova, the producer, emphasizes that the film’s acknowledgement at the Copenhagen festival serves as a catalyst for the documentary community in Central Asia. The visibility gained from international platforms enables the regional industry to garner respect and recognition, ultimately promoting the importance of documentaries as a legitimate form of creative expression.
Looking ahead, the film’s team is already contemplating new projects, with their next documentary focusing on environmental concerns and the issue of mass consumerism. They aim to highlight the journey of a T-shirt’s lifecycle, inviting viewers to reconsider their purchasing habits in light of ecological impact.
The film indirectly engages with urgent debates on nuclear armament in post-Soviet countries, illustrating how history often repeats itself. Kurmasheva comments on humanity’s struggle to find non-violent means of communication and coexistence, emphasizing how the legacy of testing continues to shape societal attitudes today.
The documentary’s original title, “Atameken,” translates to “My Sacred Land,” reflecting the emotional ties the locals maintain with their home despite the radioactivity. Kurmasheva affirms this connection through her personal narrative, advocating for the understanding that one’s attachment to land cannot easily be severed, as it encompasses familial and cultural legacies. In her conclusion, she poignantly emphasizes the singularity of Earth, a shared home for all humanity.
In conclusion, “We Live Here” serves as a poignant exploration of the lasting impact of nuclear testing in Kazakhstan. Zhanna Kurmasheva’s powerful narrative intertwines personal and collective histories, urging a reevaluation of societal indifference to past injustices. As the film gains international acclaim, it not only highlights the struggles of those in affected areas but also shines a light on essential ecological and communal issues, fostering dialogue on a global scale. With future projects on the horizon, the filmmakers aim to continue addressing pressing environmental concerns, further cementing their role in the evolving documentary landscape of Central Asia.
Original Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com
