Dars Films

06/11/2025

Dars Films welcomes you to our 2015 filming expedition in Azerbaijan — a journey that became one of the most inspiring chapters in our creative story.

That year, our team travelled across the country — from the Caspian shores to the mountain valleys and the vibrant streets of Baku — to capture the essence of a nation in motion. Out of this single expedition were born two national TV campaigns, each with its own soul and purpose, but both united by one feeling — the unstoppable energy of Azerbaijan.

The first film, “Azerbaijan – This Journey Never Ends,” was created to promote tourism. It told the story of a land where every landscape feels cinematic, every sunrise opens a new adventure, and every encounter leaves a lasting emotion. Nature had already prepared the perfect set — we simply had to press “record.”

The second film, “Team Azerbaijan – Ready to Win,” focused on investment and innovation, presenting Azerbaijan as a forward-looking, confident, and dynamic country — ready to compete and thrive on the global stage.

Both projects were filmed during the same expedition and share the same creative heartbeat. The background music you’ll hear in these films was inspired by the rhythm of our journey—and by the energy we drew from the incredible people and partners we met along the way. Their warmth, professionalism, and pride in their country became the actual soundtrack of our work.

🎥 Watch the original tourism TV commercial “Azerbaijan – This Journey Never Ends” here:
👉 https://darsfilms.com/portfolio/travel-azerbaijan-this-journey-never-ends/

🎥 Watch the investment TV commercial “Team Azerbaijan – Ready to Win” here:
👉 https://darsfilms.com/portfolio/azerbaijan-ready-to-win/

We’re proud to share this behind-the-scenes look at our joint journey — a film about how these stories were created, but also a tribute to the spirit of Azerbaijan itself.

18/10/2025

We are delighted to present a new TV commercial, filmed and produced by Dars Films as part of the SUNRISE IN UZBEKISTAN project. In just 30 seconds of screen time, we set ourselves the ambitious goal of showing the essence of one of the most legendary cities in the world — Samarkand.

Sunrise in Uzbekistan is a cinematic journey across the country’s great cities, revealing their beauty, spirit, and heritage. We have already captured the magic of Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, and other unique places. Each city has given us its own light and its own story. Now, Samarkand becomes the next destination in this journey – a city whose name alone conjures up the timeless aura of the Great Silk Road.

Samarkand has always been a place where civilisations met and intertwined. At its heart lies the dazzling Registan Square, surrounded by three majestic madrasahs, a place where power, knowledge, and beauty came together. Not far away stands the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, where the great Tamerlane rests beneath a sapphire-blue dome, his legacy echoing through the centuries. The city also preserves the genius of science: Ulugh Beg’s Observatory, one of the wonders of medieval astronomy, still reminds us of a ruler who gazed at the stars while shaping the destiny of his people.

Walking through Samarkand, you encounter the grandeur of the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, built to celebrate Timur’s victories, where masters from India, Iran, Khorezm, and beyond left their mark in stone. And then, hidden on the sacred hillside, lies the necropolis of Shakhi-Zinda, a breathtaking chain of mausoleums where almost 25 centuries of the city’s history can be traced in turquoise tiles and intricate patterns.

Yet Samarkand is not only about its monuments – it is about living traditions and the warmth of its people. In our film, we tell this story through the image of a bride, embodying the soul of Uzbek heritage. Her world is filled with suzani embroidery, crafted for generations as part of a bride’s dowry, with jewellery that once captivated both East and West, and with the golden threads of embroidery that continue to amaze visitors with their richness and artistry. And always, at the heart of Uzbek hospitality, there is tea — a simple ritual that carries deep meaning, where pouring less into the cup signifies greater respect.

25/06/2025

🎉 Dars Films Named Finalist at the US International Awards 2025 🎬

We’re excited to announce that our film “Seasons in Uzbekistan” has been selected as a finalist at the US International Awards, one of the most prestigious global competitions honouring excellence in branded content and documentary filmmaking.

This recognition reflects our ongoing mission to craft meaningful, visually compelling stories that go beyond promotion — stories that shape perception, spark emotion, and support sustainable development.

“Seasons in Uzbekistan” was created to reimagine how we talk about travel, not just around iconic sites, but around the rhythm of the year. It’s a reminder that every season offers something beautiful and that destinations can and should welcome visitors all year round.

We’re proud to see this project resonate internationally and thankful to all our partners who made it possible.

📖 Read the full story on the DARS FILMS website:
👉 https://darsfilms.com/blog/us-awards-2025/

“Seasons in Uzbekistan” Named Finalist at the US International Awards — Championing Year-Round Travel

21/05/2025

A Story in Every Cup

From London to Lankaran, few rituals are as timeless and universal as sharing a cup of tea. On this International Tea Day, we at DARS FILMS raise a cup to one of the world’s most soulful and unifying traditions.

As a British film studio, we’ve always appreciated the role tea plays in everyday life — not just as a drink, but as a moment of pause, a spark for conversation, and a symbol of hospitality. That appreciation inspired one of our favourite creative concepts. In 2015, we developed a campaign idea for Azerbaijan Airlines, drawing on the country’s deep cultural connection to tea, where it is served not simply for taste, but as a heartfelt gesture of welcome.

Tea has also played a vital role in cinema, used to convey intimacy, tension, nostalgia, or grace. Some of our favourite films where tea becomes almost a character in itself include:

🎬 The Remains of the Day – where tea becomes a ritual of dignity and repressed emotion

🎬 A Room with a View – capturing the delicate contrast between social formality and personal freedom

🎬 Alice in Wonderland – the iconic Mad Hatter’s tea party, a surreal celebration of absurdity and imagination

🎬 Gosford Park – where teacups clink between whispers of class, crime, and convention

🎬 Anna Karenina – where tea scenes convey unspoken tension and aristocratic poise

🎬 Memoirs of a Geisha – where the tea ceremony becomes a form of art and identity

🎬 Pride and Prejudice – where tea is the background to romance, misunderstandings, and societal expectations

Today, we’re proud to share our short tribute to the beauty of tea culture, inspired by the warmth of Azerbaijan and crafted through the lens of Dars Films storytelling: https://youtu.be/H5uHr9byugI

Our client, Azerbaijan Airlines, ultimately chose another of our creative concepts for the production of their TV commercial, but this “tea idea” has always held a special place in our hearts. And now, ten years later, we love it even more.

🎥 Grains of Sand, Moments in Time: Dars Films in Azerbaijan 🎥In September, a month usually emblematic of the new business season, Dars Films embarked on a ...

21/03/2025

С праздником Навруз, дорогие друзья!

Команда DARS FILMS поздравляет всех наших партнеров, коллег и друзей, которые отмечают этот светлый и вдохновляющий праздник. Навруз — это не просто начало нового года по солнечному календарю, но и символ обновления, весны, надежды и гармонии. Это время, когда природа просыпается, а сердца наполняются теплом и радостью.

Нам посчастливилось праздновать Навруз вместе с нашими друзьями и в Азербайджане, и в Казахстане, и в Узбекистане. Мы благодарны за возможность не только работать в этих странах, но и разделять с вами эти трогательные и красивые моменты. Атмосфера Навруза — с музыкой, традициями, угощениями и искренним гостеприимством — надолго остается и в памяти, и в душе. И мы счастливы, что были частью этого.

С нетерпением ждем новых встреч — как в дни праздника, так и после него. Пусть этот Навруз принесет всем здоровье, вдохновение, мир и процветание!

The DARS FILMS team warmly congratulates all our partners, colleagues, and friends who celebrate this bright and inspiring holiday. Nowruz is not just the

21/03/2025

✨ Uzbekistan Shines at the CIFFT International Tourism Film Festival! ✨
We proudly announce that Dars Films’ projects from Uzbekistan have received prestigious awards at the Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival, part of the CIFFT Circuit – the world’s leading series of tourism film festivals! The results, announced on March 19 in Japan, recognised all of our films about Uzbekistan, marking a significant achievement in global tourism promotion.
🏆 Award-Winning Films from Dars Films:
🎥 “Autumn in Uzbekistan” – Second Place in the “Country Promotion” Category
Produced as part of the “Seasons of Uzbekistan” advertising campaign for BBC News, this film beautifully captures the charm of Uzbekistan in the autumn season.
🎥 “UNWTO in Samarkand” – Second Place in the “Asia” Category
This film was created during the preparation for the UNWTO General Assembly in Samarkand 2023, highlighting the city’s rich history, culture, and role in global tourism.
🎥 “Sunrise in Fergana” – Special Award for the Best Destination Presentation
A tribute to the breathtaking landscapes and heritage of the Fergana region, this film was produced in 2024 for a promotional campaign aired on BBC News.
🔹 CIFFT: The Global Stage for Tourism Films
With 1,132 entries submitted from around the world, the CIFFT Circuit is the most prestigious competition for tourism advertising, recognising the most impactful and creative storytelling in the industry.
This incredible recognition at CIFFT Japan reinforces our mission to showcase Uzbekistan’s beauty, heritage, and tourism potential to a global audience. We are honoured to contribute to the country’s international promotion and grateful for the support of our partners in Uzbekistan!
🌍✨ Congratulations to everyone involved in these projects! Let’s continue telling the world about Uzbekistan through the power of film!
🔗 Full information with films-winners and festival results: https://darsfilms.com/blog/uzbekistans-film-wins-in-japan/

✨ Uzbekistan Shines at the CIFFT International Tourism Film Festival! ✨

08/03/2025

🌍 The Power of Seasons: A Year-Round Destination Strategy.

As we wrap up our meetings at ITB Berlin 2025, one thing is crystal clear: DARS FILMS' Seasons Project is the most popular and effective way to promote tourism destinations! All-season destinations—this is the goal for many countries and regions, and our Seasons Project offers the perfect way to achieve it. By showcasing destinations through the rhythm of nature, we create visually stunning and emotionally engaging narratives that highlight year-round travel appeal.

🎥 DARS FILMS' Two Signature Approaches:

✅ Seasons in Motion – A cinematic journey through all four seasons, capturing breathtaking landscapes and cultural moments in high-quality visuals.

✅ Season Stories – A presenter-led storytelling format that immerses viewers in real-life experiences, connecting them with local traditions and authentic encounters.

💡 What We Learned at ITB:

🔹 Tourism boards and DMOs see seasonal promotions as the key to extending visitor engagement beyond peak travel months.

🔹 Creative storytelling makes an impact—our Seasons Projects have already helped many destinations position themselves as year-round travel hubs.

🔹 Timing is essential—pre-production planning should start early, and the best season to begin filming? The current season! This ensures that the content is ready for the following year’s campaigns and international events.

At DARS FILMS, we are excited to continue crafting timeless, high-impact destination films that inspire global travelers to explore beyond the expected.

📩 If you’re looking to position your destination as a four-season experience, let's talk! The journey starts now. 🚀🎥

https://darsfilms.com/blog/seasons/

At DARS Films, we believe that every season tells a story—a transformation of landscapes, culture, and experiences that shapes how we connect with a place.

02/03/2025

Winter in Uzbekistan

🌿✨ As we welcome the spring of 2025, we at DARS Films Studio take pride in knowing that this past winter will stay in the hearts of millions worldwide. ❄️💙

Our latest production, Winter in Uzbekistan, was broadcast on BBC News TV channel, captivating a global audience with the country’s unexpected winter charm. For many, it was a delightful surprise to see Uzbekistan not only as a summer destination but also as a magical winter getaway.

We’re certain that this film will inspire many travelers to explore Uzbekistan in all its seasonal beauty. After all, Uzbekistan is the land of four seasons, and we are proud to have showcased yet another one. 🌍🎥

08/02/2025

Dars Films Celebrates Success at the Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival 2025! 🎬🏆

We are honored to announce that our films have received high recognition at the Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival 2025, standing out among 1,132 submissions worldwide. The competition was fierce, with only 80 films making it to the prestigious finalist lists.

🌍 International Finalists:

Dars Films is proud to have two films among the top selections in the international category:

“Autumn in Uzbekistan” 🍁
A breathtaking journey through Uzbekistan’s autumn landscapes, capturing the golden hues, cultural festivities, and timeless beauty of the season. This film showcases Uzbekistan in a unique and poetic light, inviting travelers to experience its charm beyond the usual tourist seasons.

“Armenia. The Hidden Track” 🏔️
A cinematic exploration of Armenia’s lesser-known wonders, from its ancient monasteries and rugged landscapes to the untold stories hidden in its mountain trails. This film sheds light on Armenia’s rich cultural heritage and its untouched, mystical side.

🌏 Asian Finalists:

In addition to our international recognition, three of our films have been selected as finalists in the Asian category, further solidifying our expertise in bringing the essence of a destination to life:

“Sunrise in Almaty Region” 🌄
A stunning portrayal of dawn breaking over Kazakhstan’s Almaty Region, where majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and cultural landmarks come to life with the first rays of sunlight.

“Sunrise in Fergana Region” 🌾
This film highlights the beauty of Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley at sunrise, blending picturesque nature with vibrant cultural traditions and the daily lives of local artisans and farmers.

“Samarkand – The Tourist Capital” 🕌
A visual celebration of Samarkand, the historic gem of Uzbekistan. Through stunning cinematography, the film explores its legendary landmarks, bustling bazaars, and deep-rooted cultural significance as one of the world’s oldest cities.

📽️ Dars Films and International Film Festivals

Over the years, Dars Films has successfully represented the beauty and heritage of different regions at top-tier international film festivals, earning accolades for our dedication to high-quality storytelling and visual excellence. Our productions have been recognised at major tourism and documentary film competitions, helping destinations connect with global audiences through inspiring, visually compelling narratives.

Being named among the Japan World’s Tourism Film Festival 2025 finalists is an incredible honor, reaffirming our commitment to cinematic excellence and creative storytelling in the tourism industry.

🌟 Thank you to our team, partners, and supporters who continue to believe in the power of storytelling to showcase the world’s most beautiful destinations! 🌟
📍 Stay tuned for more updates and visit www.darsfilms.com to explore our projects.

19/01/2025

Step into History: Discover Khiva with Dars Films

Dars Films is proud to unveil its latest TV commercial, which captures the enchanting city of Khiva, one of Uzbekistan’s most remarkable and historically rich destinations. This is our second regional TV commercial for Uzbekistan, continuing our commitment to showcasing the country’s diverse cultural heritage and vibrant tourism potential.

Khiva is more than just a city—it’s a living museum. As one of the oldest cities along the ancient Silk Road, Khiva boasts the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Itchan Kala, a walled inner city filled with over 50 historic monuments and hundreds of ancient houses. Its iconic landmarks, like the towering Kalta Minor Minaret, the grand Kunya-Ark Fortress, and the intricate Tash Khauli Palace, tell stories of khans, traders, and travellers who once crossed its gates.

Here are three key moments that highlight Khiva’s ancient past:
- 10th century: Khiva was first recorded as a major trading post on the Silk Road, serving as a vital link between East and West.
- 1598: Khiva became the capital of the Khanate of Khiva, marking its rise as Central Asia's political and cultural centre.
- 1839–1840: The British military officer and explorer Sir Alexander Burnes mentioned Khiva in his travels, further establishing its global historical significance.

Today’s tourists are no longer just exploring countries—they’re seeking authentic experiences in unique cities and regions. The competition for international tourists has shifted from the national level to the regional stage. Dars Films is honoured to support Uzbekistan’s regions and cities by providing them with the most powerful promotional tool: high-quality video storytelling.

By bringing Khiva’s breathtaking architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture to the global stage, we continue our mission to share Uzbekistan’s timeless stories with the world.

Let Khiva inspire your next journey!

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02/12/2024

Davos Economic Forum 2025 is less than two months away!

As countries and cities prepare their promo campaigns to captivate potential investors and business partners, the importance of a well-crafted visual story cannot be overstated. Yet, producing an industry-standard 30-second TV commercial is no small feat. Many miss the opportunity to present their regional investment brand to their target audiences effectively.

At Dars Films, we understand the immense power of visualisation in connecting with international audiences. As an example of what can be achieved, we’re proud to share one of our projects that highlights creative possibilities for those ready to take the stage globally.

Just in time for the Davos World Economic Forum in January 2015, Dars Films produced a 30-second TV commercial that skillfully visualised Azerbaijan’s main competitive advantages. The ad showcased the country’s investment and tourism potential across different seasons and times of the day, emphasising its diversity and unique charm. Packed into the industry-standard 30-second format, it blended stunning visuals with a clear message of opportunity and allure.

As Davos 2025 approaches, we invite those building regional investment brands to explore how a targeted visual campaign can effectively position their region or country as an attractive destination for international investments.

Just in time for the Davos World Economic Forum in January 2015, Dars Films produced a 30-second TV commercial that skillfully visualised Azerbaijan's main c...