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In a significant milestone for international cinema, Saidam Baryl and Argentic Productions have entered into a co-production agreement for the film Thaw. This collaboration marks a pioneering moment, as it is believed to be the first narrative feature co-production between a Yakut production company and its American counterpart. Written and directed by the talented Yakutian filmmaker Stepan Burnashev, this folk-horror feature promises to be a captivating blend of cultural narratives.
The setting for Thaw is a remote village in Yakutia, where the story unfolds around an American filmmaker who is investigating the impacts of melting permafrost. This exploration leads him to intersect with the life of a local teenager named Sardaana, who is undergoing a profound shamanic initiation. The plot delves deep into the interplay between climate science and indigenous beliefs, creating a rich tapestry that intertwines documentary-style observations with elements of spirituality and psychological transformation.
Understanding transformation through cultural lenses
Burnashev emphasizes the different cultural interpretations of shamanic experiences. He states, “In Western narratives, such experiences are often labeled as possession, necessitating an exorcism. However, within the Sakha tradition, these experiences are viewed as the beginning of one’s journey to becoming a shaman — a calling that carries significant responsibility.” Through Thaw, he invites audiences to reconsider these transformations, urging them to understand rather than dismiss or fear them.
Insights from Argentic Productions
KT Kent, the founder of Argentic Productions, describes Thaw as a unique voice within the genre of folk-horror. He highlights its cultural specificity and international appeal, stating, “This project stands out as an elevated folk-horror narrative that is grounded in a real place and rich cultural context.” The film aims to resonate with global audiences while sparking meaningful discussions about its themes.
The production team plans to gather a diverse international cast, along with a creative group that reflects the film’s global aspirations. The strategy for Thaw includes both theatrical releases and streaming platforms, making it accessible to a wide audience. The film is set to make its debut at film festivals, targeting late 2026 or early 2027 for its premiere.
Stepan Burnashev: A voice in contemporary Yakut cinema
Burnashev has solidified his reputation as a key player in contemporary Yakut cinema. He is known for his ability to weave atmospheric storytelling with the perspectives of indigenous Sakha culture. Recently, four of his previous films, including Black Snow, Our Winter, Cursed Land-Fate, and Aita, were released globally on Prime Video, showcasing his growing influence in the film industry.
In addition to Thaw, Burnashev has recently completed production on a psychological thriller titled The Penthouse, filmed in Malaysia and featuring the talents of Soji Arai, known for performances in Tokyo Vice and Pachinko. This diverse range of projects reflects his versatility and commitment to exploring various themes within his work.
Aiming for impactful storytelling
Argentic Productions, founded by Kent in 2017, focuses on creating genre content that carries thematic depth and relevance. Kent articulates this vision by stating, “We seek projects that contribute to public discourse and provoke thought. How do ancient philosophies resonate with contemporary issues? We aim for audiences to leave the theater with new insights, contemplating the film long after viewing.” In this context, Thaw perfectly aligns with their mission, promising to engage viewers in meaningful conversation.
With Saidam Baryl based in Yakutsk in the Sakha Republic of Russia and Argentic Productions operating out of Los Angeles, this collaboration highlights the potential for cross-cultural stories in the film landscape. As Thaw prepares for its journey to the screen, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling that bridges cultural divides and addresses pressing global issues.