Don’t Be Afraid, I’m with You!a film shot in Gakh
‘Don’t Be Afraid, I’m with You!’ was shot in 1981, partly in Baku but mostly in Gakh, a gloriously green corner of north-west Azerbaijan. The film is an adventure comedy directed by Yuli Gusman in which two circus performers, Rustam and San Sanich, return to Rustam’s native village to bury his grandmother. As the friends stay for a few days the plot thickens, with many amusing twists and turns.
Rustam’s native village is picturesque Ilisu, which was once the capital of the Ilisu Sultanate, an independent statelet that lasted until the early 19th century. However, its historical legacy is still visible in several monuments scattered in and around the village, including the Sumug-gala and Galacha towers and Ulu Bridge, which appear in the film. The movie’s many panoramic shots also show off the stunning nature of the Gakh region, dominated by the majestic Caucasus Mountains and picturesque Kurmuk river valley.
On this tour – which covers Ilisu, Gakh city and Lekit village – you’ll hear stories about the film and visit the fascinating landmarks where the scenes were shot. You’ll also travel to nearby natural beauties like the magical Mamirli Waterfall and the Ilisu hot spring, as well as have the chance to sample the region’s delicious produce and diverse local dishes – a reflection of the multicultural population.
