Eleven feature films bear the directorial credit of Shaken Ajmanov, produced during a sixteen-year tenure at the Kazakhfilm studio between 1954 and 1970. His professional trajectory spanned the distinct realms of Soviet theatre and cinema, moving from initial acting roles in Alma-Ata to shaping the formal establishment of the Kazakh national film industry throughout the mid-twentieth century.
Early Career and Theatre Development
Born in 1914 in Bayanaul, Ajmanov completed his studies at the Kazakh Institute of Education in Semipalatinsk in 1933. That same year, he joined the Kazakh Theater of Drama in Alma-Ata. His early stage work included lead roles in productions such as Akhan Seri and Aktokty, Isatai and Makhambet, and Kobylandy. By 1947, he had ascended to the position of chief director, a role he maintained until 1951.
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Ajmanov entered the film industry in 1940, initially working as an actor, most notably in the title role of the production Zhambyl. In 1954, he commenced a rigorous period of directing at Kazakhfilm, beginning with Poema o lyubvi and Doch stepey. His output included Our Dear Doctor in 1958, and he concluded his directorial portfolio with Konets atamana in 1970.
Professional Recognition and Legacy
Throughout his life, Ajmanov received numerous state honors, including the Stalin Prize in 1952 and the Order of Lenin in 1967. He served as a deputy for the Supreme Soviet of the Kazakh SSR and participated in the 3rd Moscow International Film Festival jury in 1963. Upon his death in 1970 in Moscow, he was interred at the Central Cemetery in Almaty. In 1984, Kazakhfilm was officially renamed in his honour.
Fast facts
- Born: 1914, Bayanaul
- Died: 1970, Moscow
- Primary Employer: Kazakhfilm (from 1954)
- Stalin Prize recipient: 1952
- Order of Lenin recipient: 1967
- Burial site: Central Cemetery, Almaty
- Total directorial credits: 11 films
Questions readers ask
What was Shaken Ajmanov's role at the Kazakh Theater of Drama?
He worked as an actor starting in 1933 and served as the chief director of the institution from 1947 to 1951.
When did he start directing films?
His career as a film director began in 1954 with the release of Poema o lyubvi and Doch stepey.
Achievements
- Order of Lenin — 1967
- Order of the Badge of Honour
- Order of the Red Banner of Labour — 1946
- Worked as actor, film director and theatre director
