In the Embrace of Happiness
In the Embrace of Happiness

In the Embrace of Happiness

Kazakhstan / 2025 / Kazakh / 96'

Subtitle: English
Theatre: Tai Kwun

A Kazakh version of “La La Land” featuring music classics from Shamshi Kaldayakov, the most beloved composer of the country. Bakhyt is a young man with several degrees but no job. He moves with his family from Arys to Astana, hoping to cure his sick younger brother and to take care of his elderly mother. After unsuccessful attempts to find work in his field, Bakhyt gets the job as the personal assistant to Alibek, the head of an influential oil holding company. There, he meets a beautiful and ambitious woman, and love blossoms between them. However, fate has new challenges in store. To love or to live, that is the question.

BIOGRAPHY

Director | Sanat Shapashov

Sanat Shapashov is a producer, director, and screenwriter. He studied Producing at the New York Film Academy (NYFA). His creative portfolio includes the sports drama Barys Generation, as well as television projects such as Muz Art Life, KVN Summer Cup, among others. He is the creator of the feature film In the Embrace of Happiness — the first Kazakh-language jukebox musical based on the songs of the legendary composer Shamshi Kaldayakov. The film combines socially relevant themes, music, and authentic national flavor. Particular attention is given to the image of the modern Kazakh woman, the values of family, honesty, friendship, and belief in love. The entire film was shot in the capital city.