Atirkül in the Land of Real Men

Only played by men, Buzkashi has been a popular sport in Central Asia for centuries. The aim of the game is to steal the trophy of a dead goat from the rival team of riders while on horseback. Atirkül, a woman with an enterprising spirit, enters this tough masculine world to form her own team.  

'Atirkül, our central character, is a vivid reflection of women's resilience and hope. She heeds the call of the wild, yet finds joy in Christian Dior fashion, and does not shy away from "stealing men's brains." At times, she stumbles, but she consistently rises, firm in her pursuits. It is the unwavering spirit embodied by Atirkül that has inspired the making of this film.  

'Today, regrettably, Kyrgyzstan is viewed as one of the most challenging places for women. Through this cinematic journey, my aspiration is to depict my country not solely through its hardships but also through the enduring qualities of tenacity, love, and partnership that define our society. This film is a humble tribute to the strength of our women and the shared dreams of our people to overcome adversity'. - Janyl JUSUPJAN