A cash-strapped couple becomes embroiled in a toxic web of social media, violent criminality and spiralling greed.

Azamat and Tansholpan are completely broke. When their debts are violently called in, the ambitious couple hatches a plan to make quick money. With the help of a crooked lab assistant, they fake a terminal illness, start a crowdfunder for “lifesaving” treatment and swiftly go viral. Their rapid ascent to fame and fortune at first seems like a dream come true, but soon their newfound celebrity attracts attention from Almaty’s criminal underworld, and the scheme spins dangerously out of control.

“Following the success of “Shulamah” (2024), which Aitore Zholdaskali co-directed, his supremely confident first solo feature “Sicko” confirms him as a bold new talent. Although influenced by Korean horror – with its combination of gory violence, black humour and cutting social commentary – the film also offers distinctive reflections on contemporary Kazakh life. Beneath the stylish flourishes and bloody thrills lie biting observations about gender dynamics and late-stage capitalism which eventually explode horrifyingly to the surface.” – Rachel Pronger, Rotterdam Film Festival