Watch Harmony Lessons

Harmony Lessons is a Kazakhstani drama film released in 2013, directed by Emir Baigazin. The film explores themes of bullying, revenge, and morality through the eyes of a young boy named Aslan, played by Timur Aidarbekov. Aslan is a quiet and introverted student who spends most of his time studying and collecting beetles. He lives in a small village in Kazakhstan with his grandmother and younger sister, and attends a local school where he is the target of relentless bullying by a group of boys led by Bolat (Aslan Anarbayev).

When he discovers that Bolat is involved in a local gang that steals and resells livestock, Aslan decides to take revenge by stealing Bolat's money and posing as a teacher's aide to gain access to Bolat's locker. However, Aslan's plans are complicated when he becomes infatuated with a new girl at school named Aliya (Samal Yeslyamova).

Aslan's story is intercut with scenes of his hobby, collecting and studying beetles. These scenes serve as a metaphor for Aslan's own journey, as he learns to navigate the complexities of morality and personal responsibility.

The film is shot in a minimalist style, with long takes and static shots that emphasize the bleakness of Aslan's environment. The naturalistic performances of the cast, many of whom were non-professional actors, lend authenticity to the film's portrayal of rural Kazakhstani life.

Harmony Lessons premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2013, where it won the Grand Jury Prize in the Generation KPlus section. The film was praised for its unflinching portrayal of violence and bullying, as well as its nuanced exploration of morality and responsibility.

Overall, Harmony Lessons is a powerful and thought-provoking film that delves into the dark side of human nature while also offering a glimmer of hope and redemption. Its haunting imagery and bleak atmosphere make it a challenging watch, but its themes and messages will resonate long after the credits roll.