Nurana
 Akbarova

I would like to introduce myself through my Letterboxd top four—Oldboy (2003), Cinema Paradiso (1988), Close-Up (1990), and In Bruges (2008)—which reflect my love for bold stylistic choices and moving, grounded, most importantly, kind narratives.

For me, Oldboy stands out with its daring, brutal plot and unforgettable creative style. Cinema Paradiso explores the pull between ambition and nostalgia—the longing for something greater versus the deep-rooted love for one’s origins. Close-Up, blending fiction and reality, captures the raw, rewarding process of storytelling—something I explored in my thesis. I love witnessing creativity unfold while watching docufiction and immersing myself in that third reality. And of course, In Bruges, with its down-to-earth dark humor, stands out for its incredible writing, character dialogues, and is also very fucking kind. 

In my work, I aim to bring out these nuances. Storytelling is an evolving process that I explore through various forms of media. My time in art school helped me develop a deep appreciation for visual culture, and in advertising, I found myself drawn to concepting, where I came to value how it can convey powerful messages and impact culture.

While my passion for cinematography drives me, it’s my love for concepting that continues to inspire me as I explore how ideas come to life visually. Whether through film, advertising, or other forms of visual media, my goal is to craft stories that engage, inform, and inspire.

Originally from Azerbaijan, I moved to the Netherlands to pursue a double degree in Advertising and Arts & Culture, combining my passion for film and creative experimentation with academic research. Now based in Rotterdam, I continue to build my experience, exploring new opportunities to tell powerful visual stories.
       Education



        Experience





        Awards

        Contact
Willem De Kooning Academy - Advertising & Beyond 
Erasmus University Rotterdam - Bachelor in Arts and Cultural Studies 
ADA University - Bachelor of Arts in International Studies 

Freelance PR&Design - 99th IS of European Youth Parliament 
Creative Intern - 180 Amsterdam
Editor & Filmmaker - ASAP Forum
Paper Tiger - International Film Festival Rotterdam
Editor & Organiser - European Youth Parliament Azerbaijan

Golden Pencil - The One Club Young Ones Award
    
nuranaakbarova@gmail.com
@nurunurana
linkedin

Download CV


In a creative team with Zaid Murtaza / zaid_murtaza@live.nl