Recently, the television channels "Miras" and "Arkadag" have been broadcasting feature films produced over different years, which have received a warm response from viewers. The screening of these films helps the younger generation become better acquainted with the national heritage.

Every era has its own history. Watching such films inevitably makes one reflect on various aspects of labor. One of these films is the first large-scale production by the talented film director, People's Artist of Turkmenistan, Halmammet Kakabayev – "The Glow of Gold." The film features many renowned actors who have left their mark on the history of Turkmen cinema.

The young protagonist, Myrat, was played by actor Yusup Kuliyev, who recalls that the film, depicting the lives of Turkmen oil workers in the 1930s, was shot in 1974.— The role of Myrat, the grandson of Kylych-aga, was my first acting experience. At that time, I thought that filming was easy and fun. We lived for two to three months in a dormitory near the workplaces of oil workers in Goturdepe and Nebitdag. I was only seven years old. During the filming, I saw the Caspian Sea for the first time. The film also featured Baba Annanov, Ovez Gelenov, Oraz Amangeldiyev, Aman Ode, Sapar Ode, as well as actors invited from Moscow. The production team consisted of about 40–50 people. I was constantly by the side of Ata Dowletov, who played my grandfather, and other actors also took care of me. However, I missed my parents and often asked when we would return home. They answered: "Once your grandfather is 'killed,' then you will go home." As a child, I did not understand what they meant. Later, I learned that the film ended with a tragic scene where Ata Dowletov’s character dies. Now, when I recall those moments, I cannot help but smile.

The film highlights the challenges faced by Turkmen oil workers: the shortage of skilled specialists, a lack of workforce, and the absence of modern equipment. The main character, Yomudov, was portrayed by People's Artist of Turkmenistan Oraz Amangeldiyev. His role is reminiscent of the character Artik from the legendary film "The Decisive Step."

Despite difficult times, the film portrays courageous and devoted Turkmen youth who served their homeland and people with dedication. Another key character is Kylych-aga, played by People's Artist of Turkmenistan Ata Dowletov.

His character is a kind-hearted, visionary elder and a devoted assistant to the oil workers. His strong belief that future oil fields would yield abundant resources and that beautiful cities would emerge in these areas is particularly striking. Even in those years, the people had great faith in the bright future of the oil and gas industry. Today, we can proudly say: "We live in an era where dreams come true," and this film is a testament to that.

Another vivid example of a film about the lives of oil workers is the feature film "Eagles of the Karakum", produced by the Türkmenfilm Association named after Oguzhan. Directed by People's Artist of Turkmenistan Ilmyrat Bekmiyev, this film was released in 2008 as an adaptation of the novel "Flame" by writer Hojanepes Mellayev. The film reflects the modern achievements of the oil and gas sector.

In a conversation with director Ilmyrat Bekmiyev, he noted:— When shooting any film related to a specific industry, an expert consultant is always invited. They help explain the operation of equipment and the meaning of industry-specific terminology. In the case of this film, my extensive reading of literature on the oil and gas sector greatly contributed to the production process.

The oil and gas sector holds a significant place in the country’s development. The film glorifies the dedicated labor of oil workers and drillers, as well as the broad opportunities created by the state for their success. Watching this film allows one to see the differences between eras and understand how far the industry has advanced.

This film also highlights the invaluable contribution of Hero-Arkadag, who, during his leadership, played a key role in strengthening the mentorship tradition and fostering the transfer of knowledge between generations.

Akgul Saparova,

"Nebit-Gaz" Newspaper.