What Have You Done, Zarina?
Zarina, Sen Ne Istep Qoidyñ?
Directed by Camila SagyntkanCast: Yenlik Kozyke, Tomiris Agadilova, Akzhol Primbetov, Saule Zhaksylykkyzy, Zhumagali Makhanov, Aylin Sultangazina
- Kazakhstan
- Drama, Human Rights, Social Issues, Women
- Kazakh, Russian
- Subtitled
- 2025
- 27 mins
- North American premiere
Zarina, a 15-year-old schoolgirl, decides to get rid of an unwanted pregnancy before anyone finds out. In secret, she searches for a solution – swallowing pills, whispering plans to her best friend Karina, hiding her fear from parents who would never understand. But every attempt only pulls her deeper into a vicious cycle of shame and silence. Over the course of a few days, Zarina’s childhood unravels as she faces isolation, humiliation, and the weight of decisions far beyond her age. What seemed like a way out becomes a trap she cannot easily escape.
Film Advisory Content: Some material may not be suitable for children, including mild violence, language, or brief nudity.
Credits
Writer: Camila Sagyntkan
Producer: Camila Sagyntkan
Executive Producer: Yevgeniya Moreva
Director of Photography: Aigul Nurbulatova
Editor: Alimzhan Shiyapov
Production Designer: Anastasiya Varkentin
Composer: Sultanali Kongyratbay
Sound Designer: Alexander Khimich
Music: Ryso
Plays in
SMALL WORLD, BIG VOICES
Beyond every border, a warning. Inspired by the truth that injustice anywhere threatens justice everywhere, these international shorts amplify the voices we cannot afford to ignore.

