As a film critic who’s spent a considerable amount of time navigating the labyrinth of international cinema, I can confidently say that “Bauryna Salu” is a masterpiece that will leave you both chilled and moved. The film’s raw realism and unapologetic portrayal of life in its most brutal form are reminiscent of my own childhood, spent trudging through the frozen tundra of Siberia, minus the salt extraction, of course.
Bauryna Salu” is an uncommon, lifelike gem offering two contrasting perspectives for exploration. Initially, one can immerse oneself in its tranquil, frosty environment devoid of any theatrics, a nomadic landscape that remains undiscovered. Alternatively, delving into its intricate narrative is achievable by observing it through the eyes of the 12-year-old character Yersultan (brilliantly portrayed by Yersultan Yerman). A brief look at its summary or a fleeting glance at the subtle translation of its Kazakh title as the movie commences suffices. The custom that “Bauryna Salu” embodies, crucial for interpreting the storyline, is primarily shown towards the end. Throughout the journey, its most profound and personal influences seep out with an extraordinary dedication to cinematic authenticity. This unique blend results in a captivating illusion – a film where every emotional aspect is explored, despite seemingly little happening on the surface.
Born and brought up by his elderly grandmother (Grandmother Salkyn) in a secluded rural village, Yersultan leads a laborious life, spending most of his time extracting salt from the evaporation ponds or gathering ice (when he isn’t assisting her at home). Film director Askhat Kuchinchirekov skillfully paints a vivid picture of Yersultan’s daily routine, highlighting instances of both joy and frustration. In one instance, Yersultan is seen engaged in a friendly tussle with his best friend Damir (Damir Daurenuly), as they catch up, banter, and wrestle in extended shots – the film’s only portrayal of its young characters experiencing their youthful exuberance. In later sequences, Yersultan is depicted daydreaming or waking up at odd hours – these scenes shot in dim light with a grainy texture, lending an allure to quiet moments and reflecting his suppressed discontent.
At the start, viewers unfamiliar with the plot might find themselves puzzled about Yersultan’s illness. However, a surprising event occurs early in the movie that clarifies this mystery, as his father (Aidos Auesbay), mother (Dinara Shymyrbay) and younger brother (Yerkin Berikuly) unexpectedly appear, taking him away to their home in another town. The film’s title is connected to an ancient nomadic custom – “nebere aluu” – where a family’s first-born child is given to a relative for upbringing. Historically, this practice was beneficial within large and close-knit communities. Yet, it has endured over time even as people have moved and migrated, carrying with it an inherent harshness that is often left unsaid.
In “Bauryna Salu,” Kuchinchirekov portrays himself as a victim of tradition much like the characters in his film. This work is uniquely introspective, with the director opting for environmental sounds over music to create a sense of nostalgia. However, he steers clear of preaching or moralizing to confront his inner struggles. Instead, he uses a documentary-like approach to dramatize the relationships between his characters, allowing their bonds and emotional rifts to unfold naturally through actions and body language rather than dialogue. The outcome is remarkably realistic, trapping characters such as Yersultan and his father in an apparent Cold War on their farm – a conflict that appears unsolvable, with only simmering resentment and the cultivation of animosity as the patriarch shows more affection towards the family’s horses than his own children.
In his prominent role, Yerman showcases an exceptionally captivating act, whether he’s in total solitude and seclusion, or when Yersultan, under the strain of pressures at home and school, gives way to his simmering anger. Rather than a deep dive into the customs that controlled Kuchinchirekov’s upbringing, “Bauryna Salu” follows the emotional maze born from these circumstances, gradually eroding the cold exterior Yersultan feels compelled to maintain until it finally collapses.
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2024-12-07 02:18