Zalmax's Dominion

Director: Beknur Karimov

Known for his visionary storytelling and deep exploration of Iradi culture and history, Karimov brought "Zalmax's Dominion" to life with his signature style, blending historical drama with elements of fantasy and traditional folklore. His work has been instrumental in bringing Iradi cinema to international audiences, and "Zalmax's Dominion" stands as one of his most acclaimed films.

Year: 1975

Synopsis: Set in a distant, dystopian future where the remnants of civilization are scattered across the arid landscapes of Irad, "Zalmax's Dominion" follows the journey of a rugged horseman named Bektur, who lives in a primitive, violent society known as the Outlands. The Outlanders worship a mysterious god-like figure named Zalmax, whose edicts maintain a brutal cycle of control and violence.

Bektur, a fierce warrior and skilled rider, questions the true nature of Zalmax and the seemingly eternal cycle of violence that defines his world. His curiosity and rebellious spirit lead him to discover a hidden passage to the idyllic and technologically advanced enclave known as the Eternal Steppes. The Eternal Steppes are governed by a group of immortal elites called the Zalmadar, who have transcended the hardships of the Outlands. The Zalmadar live a life of luxury, sustained by advanced technology and the labor of the Outlanders. They are led by the enigmatic and charismatic Zharadin, who maintains the illusion of Zalmax to control the Outlanders.

Bektur's arrival in the Eternal Steppes disrupts the fragile balance of this society. His raw vitality and untamed spirit fascinate some of the Zalmadar, particularly a woman named Zara, who becomes his ally. Zara, disillusioned with the stagnant and corrupt life of the immortals, sees in Bektur a chance to bring change. As Bektur learns the truth about Zalmax and the Zalmadar's control over the Outlands, he becomes a catalyst for rebellion. He rallies the disenfranchised members of both societies, using his skills as a horseman and warrior to unite them. Together, they seek to dismantle the oppressive structures that have kept them apart. Horses play a crucial role in the narrative, symbolizing freedom and the connection to the land that both Outlanders and the Zalmadar have forgotten. Bektur's horse, Akbota, becomes a symbol of the rebellion, inspiring others to join the fight for liberation.

In a climactic showdown, Bektur and his allies confront Zharadin and the Zalmadar. The battle rages across the breathtaking landscapes of the Eternal Steppes, blending high-tech weaponry with the raw power of horseback combat. Bektur's unyielding spirit and Zara's insider knowledge prove to be a formidable combination. "Zalmax's Dominion" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that explores themes of power, control, and the eternal human quest for freedom. It blends the mysticism and rugged beauty of Irad with a futuristic setting, creating a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.