In the Spanish city of Bilbao, filming has begun on a large-scale Kazakh-Spanish film about Karlag, one of the largest camps of the Stalin era, produced for Netflix. The project, tentatively titled Reconciliation (La Tregua), is being developed under an exclusive agreement with Netflix, highlighting its high caliber and international significance, reports the Adyrna National Portal, citing KazTAG.
The film is directed by renowned filmmaker Miguel Ángel Vivas, known globally for his work on the series Money Heist. It features stars from both Spanish and Kazakh cinema.
The Spanish production company Plano a Plano, headed by César Benítez, Emilio Amaré, and Emilio Pina, is responsible for much of the process. On the Kazakh side, the film is represented by Amanat Capital, led by executive producer Amanat Konakbayev. The production team also includes Dauren Baigaliev, Dair Karakeev, and UMAIFILM producers Zharaskhan Kulpienov and Aliya Dalabayeva. Coordination of the Kazakh team is managed by renowned media manager, journalist, and producer Yerlan Bekkhozhin.
The film’s plot revolves around the lives of people who ended up in Karlag, their struggle to survive, and their efforts to maintain human dignity. The story takes a unique approach by blending European and Kazakh perspectives to shed light on lesser-known aspects of history. The collaboration between Kazakh and Spanish cinema has allowed for the merging of diverse methods and ideas, resulting in an authentic and compelling production.
The sets, which recreate the atmosphere of Karlag during the 1930s-1950s, were designed with input from archival documents and historians. The costumes were also reconstructed based on archival materials, and meticulous work was done on the characterization of the film’s heroes.
The lead roles are played by acclaimed Spanish actors Miguel Herrán (known for his role as Rio in Money Heist) and Arón Piper (famous for his portrayal of Ander Muñoz in Elite), alongside Kazakh actors Dina Tasbulatova, Altynai Nogherbek, Sergey Ufimtsev, and Farabi Akkhozov. Director Vivas selected these actors for their talent and charisma to convey the deep emotions and complex fates of the characters.
“This project is a significant step in developing international cooperation. We have prepared diligently for its implementation, paying special attention to high standards and global potential. In a world facing complex challenges and a search for mutual understanding, such projects demonstrate the unifying power of art. Our goal is to create a film that resonates with audiences and underscores Kazakhstan’s importance on the global stage,” said Amanat Konakbayev, the lead producer on the Kazakh side.
Yerlan Bekkhozhin also emphasized the importance of the project:
“We hope our film helps millions worldwide learn more about Kazakhstan’s history, its rich culture, shared values, and historical memory. The film features the Kazakh language and carries a profound message: the destinies of people from different nations converged in this place, and the Kazakh people embraced them all. Kazakhstan became a second home for millions, showing great hospitality, tolerance, and kindness. This film pays homage to those who endured the trials of Karlag, exploring how individuals maintained their dignity and humanity in the face of adversity. Even in the most challenging geopolitical conditions and amid differences in perspectives, there is always room for dialogue and compromise. This is not just a feature film but a tribute to those who suffered in Karlag. We were deeply impressed by Miguel Ángel Vivas’s dedication during the preparation process and the harmonious teamwork with Spanish producers.”
The filming, which will last 2.5 months, is taking place in Bilbao.
This is the first collaboration with Netflix, opening new horizons for Kazakh cinematography, allowing it to reach a global audience of millions, and solidifying Kazakhstan’s status as a significant player in the international film industry. The creators of the film plan to present it at prestigious film festivals, further strengthening its international recognition and acclaim.
