Maimil is the second part of the coming of age trilogy by Kyrgyz director Aktan Abdykalykov, nowadays known as Aktan Arym Kubat. It is a trilogy in which we follow the universal struggle of a boy growing up in Kyrgyzstan trying to find his way in the world. Throughout the trilogy the characters grow and mature, a process mirrored in the three films: Seventeen-yearold Maimil (chimp) gained his nickname thanks to his large protruding ears. While waiting to be drafted for military service, he is torn between his peers' world and grown-up life. He lives life as every other boy his age; he hangs out with his friend, tries to sort out his relationship with his girlfriend, explores his sexuality and is busy just growing up. But when his mother leaves her alcoholic husband and takes his younger sister with her, Maimil takes his responsibility and decides to look after his father.
Thursday 18 August. 5.00 pm, Rialto 
