November 10 2024
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Bosnian and Herzegovinian Film Days
A cinematic journey of drama and reflection
Israa Radaydeh, Jordan News
last updated:
Jul 30,2023
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The second edition of the Bosnian and Herzegovinian Film
Days is set to commence on Wednesday, July 31 captivating its audiences with
three Bosnian films, including: “Full Moon,” “A Ballad,” and “Men Don’t Cry.”
Providing the audience with thought-provoking cinema, the themes of the films
this year focus on corruption, justice, female empowerment, and the lasting
impact of war. اضافة اعلان
Organized by the Royal Film Commission and the Embassy of
Bosnia and Herzegovina in Jordan, the three free screen films are to take place
at The Royal Film Commission’s Outdoor Amphitheater. Each film provides insight
about the country’s culture, history, and societal issues through the lens of
filmmakers.
So let us take a deep dive in the three films that will be
screened.
“Full Moon”A movie about the road to redemption.
"Full Moon" is a compelling Bosnian drama film
directed by Nermin Hamzagic, released in 2019. This dark and suspenseful drama
delves into themes of corruption, justice, and redemption. The film follows
Bosnian police inspector Hamza, who is called in to work a night shift. As he
deals with a series of cases, he must confront not only the challenges of his
job but also his own inner demons and the corruption prevailing within the
police force.
The movie boasts stunning cinematography by Amil Dakoli,
creating a gloomy and ominous atmosphere that mirrors the broken society
plagued by corruption and poverty. Amidst this intense night, coinciding with a
full moon known to influence human behavior, Hamza faces a grueling workload
that sheds light on the prevalent problems and injustices in Bosnian society.
"Full Moon" artfully blends elements of human
drama and crime thriller, drawing parallels to the works of Sidney Lumet.
Director Nermin Hamzagic exhibits a confident and skillful approach to
storytelling, immersing the audience in the struggles of a decent man
navigating an impossible situation. Alban Ukaj delivers a compelling
performance, adding depth to the film's emotional impact.
The movie's strong casting leaves a significant impact, with
each character contributing to the film's immersive experience. Notably, Jasna
Diklic shines as the lonely older woman Meliha, delivering a scene-stealing
performance.
"A Ballad”A brave drama of feminist resolve and emotional struggles
"A Ballad" is a captivating Bosnian drama film
written and directed by Aida Begić, released in 2022. The film, with a runtime
of 120 minutes, revolves around the poignant struggles of Meri, a
thirty-year-old woman caught in the turmoil of a not-quite-married and a
not-quite-divorced situation. Meri embarks on an emotional journey to regain
custody of her eight-year-old daughter, Mila, after the end of a turbulent
relationship with her former partner, Hasan.
Its empathetic character study and endeavor to infuse life
into a soap-opera-like storyline is interesting, however, the movie has also
been criticized by some for its uneven execution and stylistic flights of fancy
that don't always land smoothly. Some elements, such as the Brechtian coda and
the incorporation of feminist themes, are recognized as artistically exciting
and ambitious.
Director Aida Begić gained recognition for her previous
works, including "Snow" and "Children of Sarajevo," both
acclaimed and awarded at Cannes. However, "A Ballad" takes a more
experimental approach, deviating from the focus on war's impact to explore
personal and emotional struggles.
The film's central character, Meri, skillfully portrayed by
Marija Pikić, is presented as a passive protagonist, and the story delves deep
into her emotional journey and quest for independence. However, some critics
note that the plot relies heavily on scriptwriting contrivances, leaving
certain storylines unresolved and evoking a sense of bemused bathos among the
audience.
Despite its ambitious narrative and artistic intentions,
"A Ballad" is considered a film that may have limited impact beyond
ex-Yugoslavian territories. Nevertheless, its unique approach and exploration
of feminist themes make it an intriguing addition to Bosnian cinema. The film
is expected to continue its festival journey and attract the attention of
audiences interested in character-driven dramas and experimental storytelling.
"A Ballad" is a brave and artistically exciting
Bosnian drama that delves into the emotional struggles of its protagonist as
she grapples with a complex custody battle and the challenges of a
not-quite-marriage situation. Although it may have its uneven moments, the
film's exploration of feminist themes and incorporation of stylistic
experimentation add depth to its character study. For those seeking
thought-provoking films and a unique storytelling approach, "A
Ballad" offers an intriguing and immersive cinematic experience.
“Men Don’t Cry”A tale of confrontation and what happens after.
"Men Don't Cry" is a moving drama released in 2017
and directed and written by Alen Drljević. Set in Bosnia and Herzegovina,
fifteen years after the war, the film follows a group of middle-aged Yugoslav
War veterans who embark on an extended group-therapy session at a remote
mountain hotel. During this therapy, the complexities of their pasts and the
enduring effects of the war come to the surface.
The movie delves into the emotional struggles of these
former soldiers as they grapple with their deep-seated emotions and haunting
experiences from the war. The characters are depicted as holding onto their
masculinity and prejudices, hindering them from fully confronting the
inhumanity they endured during the conflict. The narrative skillfully explores
themes of masculinity, trauma, and the profound impact of war on individuals
and society.
"Men Don't Cry" was well-received by audiences and
critics alike, earning critical acclaim. It was chosen as the Bosnian entry for
the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 90th Academy Awards,
representing Bosnia and Herzegovina in the international film competition.
Although it did not secure a nomination, the film received recognition at the
52nd Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where it won the Special Jury
Prize in 2017.
The film boasts a remarkable cast, including Boris Isaković,
Leon Lučev, Emir Hadžihafizbegović, Ermin Bravo, Ivo Gregurević, Sebastian
Cavazza, and Izudin Bajrović.
"Men Don't Cry" offers a poignant portrayal of war
veterans confronting their past traumas in a therapy setting. Its exploration
of the complexities of masculinity and the enduring impact of war make it a
thought-provoking and impactful drama.
The three film screenings will take place at RFC’s outdoor
amphitheater starting on Wednesday, July 31 at 8pm.