Sicko

In Almaty, a cash-strapped couple hatch a plan to solve their money troubles, but soon become embroiled in a toxic web of social media, violent criminality and spiralling greed. This exhilarating, take-no-prisoners horror offers a blood-soaked satire on the indignities of late-stage capitalism.

“New day – new opportunity!” Despite their daily affirmations and commitment to the grindset, Azamat (Ayan Utepbergen) and Tansholpan (Dilnaz Kurmangali) are completely broke. When their debts are violently called in, the ambitious couple hatch a plan to make quick money. With the help of a crooked lab assistant, the couple fake a terminal illness, start a crowdfunder for ‘life-saving’ treatment and swiftly go viral. Their rapid ascent to fame and fortune at first seems like a dream come true, but soon their celebrity attracts attention from Almaty’s criminal underworld, and their scheme spins dangerously out of control. 

Following the success of Shulamah (2024), which Aitore Zholdaskali co-directed, his supremely confident first solo feature Sicko confirms him as a bold new talent. Although influenced by Korean horror – with its combination of gory violence, black humour and cutting social commentary – the film also offers distinctive reflections on contemporary Kazakh life. Beneath the stylish flourishes and bloody thrills lie biting observations about gender dynamics and late-stage capitalism which eventually explode horrifyingly to the surface.

– Rachel Pronger

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