On the verge of adulthood, the wide-eyed and reserved sixteen-year-old schoolgirl, Ardak, can only imagine the feeling of desire, and the outburst of emotions of her first teenage love. Diagnosed with HIV as a child though has set her back somewhat in her pursuit. Living a sheltered life with her mother in a plush house in the city of Almaty, Kazakhstan, Ardak dreams of moving to Paris and becoming the next big thing in couture. But it’s a chance meeting at a local charity for HIV adolescents, where she meets the alluring and adventurous, Zhanna, to put her plans into motion. Before long, their youthful friendship will yield to an arduous, yet ardent romance, in a country that has stigmatized them since birth. Forging a plan to steal a prized falcon from Zhanna’s criminous cousin though, proves to be the ultimate test of their character and their relationship. Undoubtedly, first love can be difficult, but to truly liberate themselves, Ardak and Zhanna must take valorous action and be determined to overcome the danger awaiting them.

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