Men Don't Cry

52nd KVIFF – I see that the Balkan stigmas from the war in the 1990s are still current. This movie will tell you what happens when you bring a bunch of Yugoslavians into a mountain hotel in this day and age. None of you would currently want to meet a Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, Muslim, and an Ustasha member in one place. Well, and one Slovenian psychologist approached it as voluntary research and at the same time an attempt to come to terms with the past. The fact that the doctor is Slovenian is, by the way, quite apt. However, there is no use in saying how it ends, but what is worth your interest is what happens during the movie. In addition, count on absolutely amazing camerawork that will convince you that the Bosnian mountain massif is worth a visit. So definitely a thumbs up from me. (07/04/2017)

What a powerful experience! This intimate drama is entirely carried by its brilliantly acted characters, who feel so authentic that at times it almost seems like a documentary — which is what this project was originally intended to be before becoming a feature film. Kudos to the creators for tackling such a sensitive and challenging topic — they hit the mark perfectly. These are the issues that need to be discussed and addressed so that people scarred by the trauma of war can find a way to function in society. The standout moments are the scenes where each character reconstructs their most horrific war experiences. The march to execution and the knife-to-the-throat scene were especially impactful, truly nerve-wracking in their intensity. The film also features a natural and unforced humor that provides some much-needed relief from the emotional heaviness. The resolution and subsequent catharsis were the perfect ending to this grim and weighty tale of trauma. I sincerely hope this film gets at least a nomination for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars. It’s an exceptional and important work that deserves recognition. A film for men, but not just for men. (10/03/2017)