European cinema deals with complex human relationships and has always been known for some of the most real and layered portrayals of women on screen. While the under-representation of women filmmakers across the world remains a point that needs to be addressed, Europe has always had women filmmakers driving narratives that have set trends and gotten global recognition.
Ranging from human drama to comedy to romance to social impact, here is the list of 5 films by European women filmmakers you must watch at the 28th Edition of European Union Film Festival from 1-10 December, 2023.
Mother
This heartfelt movie, directed by Bulgarian filmmaker and artist Zornitsa Sophia, is inspired by the true story of a theatre director from Bulgaria. Elena, an inspired theatre director, loses her ability to have children at 32. Facing a choice between conceiving in vitro with her husband Leon and adapting her life-transforming theatre program for orphans in Africa, Elena will have to reinvent the word “mother.” Released in 2022, the skilled direction in the movie evokes a roller coaster of emotions. The film has earned many accolades, including the Gandhi-UNESCO Medal – ASIAN PREMIERE at the International Film Festival of India.
Director: Zornitsa Sophia
Genre: Drama
Wolf and Dog
Directed by Portuguese filmmaker Cláudia Varejão, the movie, originally known as LOBO E CÃO, focuses on the lives of the LGBTQI/Queer community and their struggle for acceptance by society and family. Ana embarks on a journey of self-discovery filled with new desires that will reveal the right sea for her to sail. The film is a charming tribute to the significant impact of the Queer community. The film won the Venice Film Festival 2022: GdA Director’s Award and bagged many other accolades.
Director: Cláudia Varejão
Genre: Drama
MURINA
The film, directed by Antoneta Alamat Kusijanovic, is a self-aware drama of a teenage girl, Julija, who decides to replace her oppressive father, Ante, with his wealthy foreign friend during a weekend trip to the Adriatic Sea. The movie challenges the patriarchal society. When an old family friend arrives at their Croatian island home, tension rises between the daughter and her controlling father. The film develops into intense drama, showcasing the desire for a free and peaceful life. The film has been awarded Camera d’Or 2012 – Golden Camera at Quinzaine des Réalisateurs.
Director: Antoneta Alamat Kusijanovic
Genre: Drama
My Love Affair with Marriage
This adult animated movie, directed by Latvian animator and visual artist Signe Baumane, is the story of a 23-year-old girl, Zelma, and her quest for perfect love and lasting marriage. From an early age, fairy tales and songs convinced Zelma that love would solve her problems. However, as she gets older, she realizes the world is different, and her concept of love doesn’t seem right. The film focuses on a woman’s journey toward independence and liberation, challenging ancient beliefs while tackling adult issues of love, gender norms, domestic violence, fantasies, and toxic relationships. The film was premiered in Tribeca Festival 2022 and has received Jury Distinction for Feature Film in the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2022.
Director: Signe Baumane
Genre: Adult Animation
Palimpsest
The Finnish Sci-fi drama directed by Hanna Västinsalo is the story of two elderly roommates chosen for a gene therapy trial. The two elderly at a hospice are randomly selected for a Gene-Therapy Trial that rejuvenates their bodies, making them younger. As they age, they react very differently to the change. They experience a wide range of emotions when given another chance at love, lust, and life while keeping their memories of the previous life intact. The story develops into an intense yet adventurous tale of the desire to find their place in a new world they left behind. The movie was premiered in the Biennale College Cinema at 79 Venice International Film Festival Edition and has been awarded at HFPA Special Prize at Hanna Marjo Västinsalo.
Director: Hanna Västinsalo
Genre: Drama | Sci-Fi
So, this weekend, venture into the realm of world cinema and embark on a cinematic journey through Europe. Grab your popcorn and settle under a blanket for a binge-watching extravaganza.
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