Private Project

The Boyz

A gripping coming-of-age film that follows a group of teenagers as they navigate the challenges of growing up and chasing their dreams in a tough world. As they navigate the complexities of adolescence, the boys find themselves confronted with a variety of obstacles, from family problems and peer pressure to poverty and violence. Some turn to music as a means of expression, others are tempted by the allure of fast money and easy thrills, flirting with a life of crime. But no matter what path they choose, they are united by a deep-seated desire to succeed and find their place in the world.

  • Abdel Yelyubayev
    Director
    Boyzhetken. She's All That
  • Abdel Yelyubayev
    Writer
    Boyzhetken. She's All That
  • Abdel Yelyubayev
    Producer
  • Dinara Saduakassova
    Producer
  • Yerlan Kulmurzin
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Feature
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 25 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    January 31, 2023
  • Country of Origin:
    Kazakhstan
  • Country of Filming:
    Kazakhstan
  • Language:
    Russian
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Almaty Indie Film Festival
    Almaty
    Kazakhstan
    September 1, 2023
    Kazakhstan premier
    Official Selection
  • Filmfest Bremen
    Bremen
    Germany
    April 12, 2023
    Best International Feature Film
  • Kanazawa Film Festival
    Kanazawa
    Japan
    September 10, 2023
    Japanese premier
    Official Selection
  • Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival
    Philadelphia
    United States
    November 2, 2023
    US Premier
    Official Selection
Distribution Information
  • Remedy creative studio
    Distributor
    Country: Kazakhstan
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography - Abdel Yelyubayev

Abdel Fiftybayev, born Abdel Yelyubayev, is an independent filmmaker with a passion for crafting powerful and thought-provoking stories. Born in Almaty, Kazakhstan in 1985, Abdel grew up with a deep appreciation for the arts and a desire to tell stories that would resonate with audiences around the world.

After completing his high school education, Abdel moved to the United States, where he spent five years immersing himself in American culture and exploring the diverse landscape of independent cinema. During this time, he honed his skills as a filmmaker, experimenting with different styles and techniques while developing his unique voice as a storyteller.

In 2015, Abdel returned to Kazakhstan and enrolled in the Kazakh Ablai Khan University of International Relations and World Languages, where he earned a degree in Culturology. Armed with a deep understanding of culture and society, as well as a strong foundation in film theory and technique, Abdel set out to create a body of work that would challenge and inspire audiences.

Over the years, Abdel has written, directed, edited, and produced a number of acclaimed films, ranging from documentaries to short films to feature-length dramas. His work has been praised for its raw emotion, gripping storytelling, and uncompromising commitment to social justice.

Filmography:
2023 The Boyz
2018 Boyzhetken. She’s ALL that
2016 Boyzhetken /short film

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

As a filmmaker, I've always been drawn to stories that explore the human condition in all its complexity. And when I learned about my brother's harrowing experience with the justice system, I knew that I had to turn his story into a film.

For years, I listened to his tales of survival and redemption, and each time I was struck by the power of his resilience and his unshakable spirit. And so, when the opportunity arose to make a film about his experiences, I knew that I had to seize it.

With a budget of just $10,000 and a team of dedicated artists and collaborators, we set out to bring "The Boyz" to life. We worked tirelessly to capture the raw emotion and gritty reality of my brother's story, striving to honor his experiences and those of countless others who have faced similar struggles.

For us, this film was more than just a project - it was a labor of love, a testament to the power of the human spirit, and a call to action for a more just and compassionate society. And we hope that audiences will be moved and inspired by our work, and that "The Boyz" will serve as a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit.