A film shot in the mountains of Pamir in Tajikistan was released in Russia on March 26. The thriller “Pastures of the Gods” by Anar Abbasov is confidently gaining traction among viewers in Russia and other post-Soviet countries. Both Russian and Tajik actors participated in the project.
The film was shot in 2023-2024. The ideological inspirer and executive producer of “Pastures of the Gods” was Alek Shakhbazyan, and the project was implemented by the Russian film company “Cinema Concept Production” with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation.
What is the film about?
The plot follows a group of friends from Moscow who travel to the Pamir mountains for a hunting trip—supposedly to support a friend who is struggling with the loss of his wife. But soon, they become the prey themselves. In mortal danger, they realize that the real threat does not come from the surrounding mountains, but from those who are close by…
The creators note that all scenes with animals were filmed without harm to them—the team used modern special effects and stunt doubles to convey the beauty of nature as ethically as possible.
“For me, this project is unique in its story and the space where it unfolds. It is in the Pamir that ancient, unique animals—the nakhchiri—live, which our heroes will hunt. This is a story about human greed and how good always triumphs over evil. I believe that humans must learn to live in harmony with nature. We will introduce the audience to the world of Pamir and its ancient traditions, which can teach us all about love,” said Anar Abbasov during a presentation in 2023.
“Inspiring youth to remember their roots”
Those who have seen “Pastures of the Gods” are already sharing their impressions on social media. The film has received very positive reviews among them. The authors’ spelling and punctuation are preserved.
“The film is wonderful! We went yesterday! The impressions and spirit are mesmerizing! I never thought about the language, the protection and revenge of fauna, the mountains of our people! It was very interesting and shot very high quality!! THANK YOU SO MUCH — to the whole team!! You did it,” writes one of the viewers.
“This film emphasizes the contrast between the fascination with foreign values and the interest of foreign guests in the traditions of Pamir, inspiring youth to remember their roots,” wrote blogger Dilya Mirsaidova.
“I am so happy for my compatriots; the Pamir people are a great people. May you reach even greater heights, may Allah grant you health, greetings from the city of Khujand,” writes user leninabadskiyyy.
Who is in the cast?
The main roles are played by Russian actors Anton Filipenko, Danila Yakushev, Anna Viller, Vlad Kanopka, Nadezhda Ivanova, and Sukhrab Khaylobekov. The script was written by Oleg Denisov. The composers are Alexey Razumov, Vladimir Takhinov, and Elman Ragimov.
Additionally, the film company notes that Tajik actors from theater and cinema contributed to the creation of “Pastures of the Gods”: Shokhnazari Nekkadam, Azam Andambekov, Mavlona Najmidinova, Umed Khisravov, and Mutrib Shoiskandarov.
More about the production process can be found in this article by “Asia-Plus” here.
