Dom za vesanje

In 1988, a Serbian filmmaker named Emir Kusturica released a movie that would change the landscape of European cinema. The movie was called "Dom za vesanje" or "Time of the Gypsies" in English, and it told the story of a young Roma boy named Perhan who is taken under the wing of a gangster and goes on a journey of self-discovery. The movie was hailed as a masterpiece and won numerous awards, including the Best Director award at the Cannes Film Festival.

"Dom za vesanje" is a movie that explores the themes of identity, tradition, and the struggle for survival. It is a story that is both tragic and uplifting, and it has captivated audiences around the world for over three decades. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the movie and explore why it is still relevant today.

One of the main arguments that we will be covering in this post is the way that "Dom za vesanje" portrays the Roma community. Kusturica has been criticized by some for perpetuating negative stereotypes of the Roma people, while others have praised him for shedding light on a marginalized community. We will examine both sides of this argument and try to come to a conclusion about whether the movie is harmful or helpful to the Roma community.

Another point that we will be covering is the way that "Dom za vesanje" fits into the larger context of European cinema. We will look at how the movie influenced other filmmakers and how it contributed to the development of a new wave of Eastern European cinema in the 1990s.

Finally, we will explore the impact that "Dom za vesanje" has had on audiences and critics over the years. We will look at why the movie has endured for so long and why it continues to resonate with people today.

So, whether you are a fan of European cinema or simply interested in exploring a classic movie from a different perspective, this blog post is for you. We hope to provide you with new insights into "Dom za vesanje" and to spark a lively discussion about this timeless classic.

I'm sure you will also enjoy the following films:

"The Lives of Others" is a 2006 German movie that tells the story of a Stasi officer who is tasked with spying on a successful playwright and his actress girlfriend in East Berlin in the 1980s. As he listens in on their conversations, he becomes increasingly drawn into their lives and begins to question the morality of his job.

Plot Summary

The movie follows the story of Gerd Wiesler, a Stasi officer who is assigned to spy on the famous playwright Georg Dreyman and his girlfriend, actress Christa-Maria Sieland. As he listens in on their conversations, he becomes fascinated by their lives and begins to question the morality of his job. As the story unfolds, Wiesler's loyalty to the state is put to the test, and he must decide whether to follow orders or do what he knows is right.

Impressions

"The Lives of Others" is a powerful and thought-provoking movie that explores themes of loyalty, morality, and the human spirit. The film is beautifully shot and expertly directed, with a compelling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The cast is outstanding, with standout performances from Ulrich Mühe as Wiesler, Martina Gedeck as Christa-Maria, and Sebastian Koch as Dreyman.

Strong Points

One of the strongest points of the film is its exploration of the human spirit and the power of art to inspire change. The relationship between Dreyman and Christa-Maria is particularly moving, as they use their art to express their love for each other and their dissatisfaction with the state. The film also does an excellent job of portraying the tension and paranoia of life in East Berlin in the 1980s, and the toll it takes on those who live there.

Weak Points

One of the weaker points of the film is that it can be slow-moving at times, particularly in the first half. However, this is a minor quibble, as the film's deliberate pacing serves to build tension and suspense, and ultimately pays off in a powerful and emotional climax.

Overall, "The Lives of Others" is a must-see movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its exploration of the human spirit and the power of art to inspire change is both timely and timeless, and its strong performances and expert direction make it a true cinematic masterpiece.

I recently watched "City of God," a 2002 Brazilian crime drama directed by Fernando Meirelles and co-directed by Kátia Lund. The film is based on a true story and depicts the rise of organized crime in the poverty-stricken favelas of Rio de Janeiro.

Plot Summary

The film follows the life of a young boy named Rocket, who grows up in the City of God, a violent and impoverished neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro. Rocket dreams of becoming a photographer and tries to stay out of trouble, but he becomes caught up in the gang violence that plagues his community. The film depicts the lives of several characters, including Rocket's friend, Benny, who becomes a successful drug dealer, and Li'l Zé, a ruthless gang leader who will stop at nothing to maintain his power.

Impressions

One of the strongest points of this film is its visual style. The cinematography is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the favelas and the city of Rio de Janeiro. The film also uses a non-linear narrative structure that adds to its complexity and depth.

The cast of "City of God" is also exceptional. Many of the actors were non-professionals who were recruited from the favelas themselves, giving the film a sense of authenticity that is hard to replicate. The performances are raw and powerful, with some truly unforgettable moments.

However, the film is not without its weaknesses. At times, the violence and brutality can be overwhelming, and some viewers may find it difficult to watch. Additionally, the film has been criticized for its portrayal of poverty and violence in Brazil, with some arguing that it perpetuates negative stereotypes.

Overall, I would highly recommend "City of God" to anyone who is interested in crime dramas or foreign films. The film is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of poverty, violence, and power, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "City of God" is a stunning film that is well worth watching. Its incredible visuals, powerful performances, and complex narrative structure make it a standout in the genre of crime dramas. While the film may not be for everyone, those who are willing to engage with its themes and ideas are sure to be rewarded with a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.

Wow, I just watched the 2001 release of "Amélie" and I am blown away! This movie is a true masterpiece in the world of cinema. The directing and cinematography are absolutely stunning and they work together to create a visually captivating and emotionally moving experience.

Plot Summary

The film tells the story of Amélie Poulain, a young woman living in Paris who decides to devote herself to helping others find happiness. Along the way, she discovers love and learns to overcome her own fears and insecurities.

Impressions

What I loved most about "Amélie" was its unique and quirky style. The film is filled with whimsical and fantastical elements that transport the viewer into Amélie's magical world. The cinematography is bright and colorful, with a lot of close-up shots that really capture the emotions of the characters.

One of the strongest points of this movie is its cast. Audrey Tautou gives a brilliant performance as Amélie, perfectly capturing her quirky personality and her inner struggles. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their roles.

Weak Points

Honestly, it's hard to find any weak points in this movie. However, some viewers may find the pacing to be slow at times, as the film takes its time to develop the characters and build up the plot.

What Makes this Movie Special?

"Amélie" is special because it is a true work of art. The film is a visual feast, with every shot and every frame carefully crafted to create a unique and memorable experience. It's also a deeply emotional movie, with themes of love, loss, and self-discovery that resonate with viewers of all ages.

Personal Opinion

As a movie expert, I can say without a doubt that "Amélie" is one of the best films of its generation. It's a movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, and it has something to offer everyone. Whether you're a fan of romantic comedies, dramas, or just great cinema in general, you won't be disappointed by this film. Highly recommended!

Pan's Labyrinth: A Dark and Beautiful Masterpiece

Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth is an award-winning, fantasy drama film that was released in 2006. It's a unique and visually stunning movie that combines the brutal reality of war with the magic and mystery of a fairy tale.

Plot Summary:

The story is set in 1944 Spain, where a young girl named Ofelia moves to a rural area with her pregnant mother to be with her stepfather, the ruthless Captain Vidal. Ofelia discovers a mysterious labyrinth near their new home and meets a faun who tells her that she is a long-lost princess from an underground kingdom. The faun gives Ofelia a series of tasks to complete, which she believes will allow her to return to her rightful place in the kingdom. However, as the tasks become more dangerous and Vidal's cruelty intensifies, Ofelia must choose between saving her own life and following her destiny.

Impressions:

Pan's Labyrinth is a cinematic masterpiece that blends fantasy and reality seamlessly. The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful visuals that range from the mystical world of the underground kingdom to the brutal realities of war. The performances are also fantastic, with Ivana Baquero delivering a captivating portrayal of a young girl caught between two worlds. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Sergi López delivering a chilling performance as the sadistic Captain Vidal.

Strong Points:

One of the strongest points of Pan's Labyrinth is its ability to create a sense of wonder and magic while also exploring the harsh realities of war. The film's themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and bravery are woven throughout the story, making it a powerful and emotional experience. Additionally, the film's use of practical effects and makeup creates some truly unforgettable and terrifying creatures and scenes.

Weak Points:

While Pan's Labyrinth is a fantastic film, it may not be for everyone. The movie is dark and violent, and some of the scenes may be too intense for some viewers. Additionally, the film's ending may be ambiguous for some, leaving them feeling unsatisfied.

Conclusion:

Pan's Labyrinth is a unique and visually stunning film that is both haunting and beautiful. It's a dark fairy tale that explores the horrors of war and the power of imagination. Guillermo del Toro has created a masterpiece that is both emotionally powerful and visually striking. It's a must-see for anyone who loves fantasy, drama, or just great filmmaking.

I recently watched the 2011 release "The Intouchables" and I must say, it was a truly remarkable film. It was directed by Olivier Nakache and Éric Toledano, who did a fantastic job in bringing out the emotions of the characters on the screen.

Plot and Summary

The movie is based on a true story and revolves around the relationship between two men from completely different backgrounds. Philippe, a wealthy quadriplegic, hires Driss, a young man from the projects, to be his caregiver. Through their journey together, they form a deep bond and learn valuable lessons from each other.

Impressions

One of the strongest aspects of this movie is the casting. François Cluzet, who plays Philippe, and Omar Sy, who plays Driss, both deliver outstanding performances. Their chemistry on screen is palpable and they truly bring the characters to life.

Another strong point is the cinematography. The movie is shot beautifully and captures the essence of Paris in a way that is both authentic and visually stunning.

Weak Points

While the movie does have its emotional moments, some viewers may find it predictable or cheesy at times. Additionally, some may argue that the portrayal of Driss perpetuates stereotypes about people from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Overall Opinion

Despite its flaws, I truly believe that "The Intouchables" is a must-watch movie. It's a heartwarming story about the power of human connection and the importance of stepping outside of one's comfort zone. The performances, cinematography, and soundtrack all come together to create a truly special film that I would highly recommend to anyone.