‘About Mannequin’ Silent Short Sets Screening With London Philharmonic

Women In Film and Foresee Films are hosting a screening of the black-and-white silent short film About Mannequin, featuring live accompaniment from the London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Set for Friday, Dec. 6, WIF, Los Angeles will provide exclusive access to the virtual screening with the orchestra performing composer Giorgi Rtskhiladze‘s music until Friday, Dec. 13, as well as a Dec. 7 Q&A with producer Kim Magnusson and producer, co-writer and star Ayanat Ysmagambetova Ksenbai.

“The London Philharmonic Orchestra is delighted to contribute to this project that captures the magic of the silent era; where music and brilliant acting combine to tell extraordinary stories,” said London Philharmonic Orchestra chief executive David Burke in a statement. “The film’s original song, recorded by our players, captures the essence of this timely narrative of a brave woman’s conquest over oppression.”

Giorgi Rtskhiladze explained that the short and her original song ‘More Than Mannequin’ celebrate “brave women’s triumph over tyranny,” spotlighting gender discrimination and oppression.

Directed by Aruzhan Dossymkozha, About Mannequin is set in a mysterious bridal shop and follows the unsettling journey of a young family whose encounter with a cursed wedding dress triggers a series of tragic events. As the alluring but sinister garment exerts its influence, family bonds are tested, and reality itself is called into question. The silent, black-and-white short pays tribute to the art of filmmaking and the rich tradition of storytelling within Kazakh culture.

“Making About Mannequin has been the dream of a lifetime. Showing Kazakhstan to the United States and around the world, I am proud to have made a film about a brave woman triumphing over the most challenging circumstances,” said Ksenbai in a statement.