Three Kilometres to the End of the World

A procedural analysis of the actions of Eastern European villagers – the family of the injured party, the police and the father of those who are responsible – during the investigation of a crime and the subsequent handling of the facts that are brought to light. Though incomprehensible to the point of absurdity in the context of Western civilisation, those actions are well intentioned at the core of the characters’ limited way of thinking – albeit with a veil of nagging remorse. And even though the screenplay does not revolve explicitly around tragedy, the film holds the viewer’s attention with the brilliant structure of the dialogue and uncomplicated examination of the characters, while stimulating curiosity as to how it will develop. The same story with the same characters and dialogue could work just as well in the conditions of Poland or Slovakia. [Cannes FF] (05/20/2024)

Films about coming out are no longer a novelty these days, but Three Kilometres to the End of the World provides a fresh look at how people living in isolated places deal with such a situation, where not only the influence of traditional values on the modern generation, but also deep-seated prejudices and fear of the unknown can lead to tragic consequences, all in an environment that seems idyllic at first glance. The methods parents resort to in order to resolve their son's situation, to help him, really takes us back a number of decades, if not more, and if it weren't for smartphones, one would almost feel that this is the Middle Ages. Either way, it's a compelling film about the courage to be oneself, even if it means facing hostility, misunderstanding and non-acceptance, even from those we care about most. [Festival de Cannes 2024] (07/25/2024)