Film enthusiasts in Montenegro will have the opportunity to experience the cinematic premiere of “Obraz,” directed by Nikola Vukčević, on February 11, 2024, at 20:00 in the Sinepleks cinema located in Podgorica. This event marks a significant milestone as it initiates the film’s theatrical journey in the country, according to a statement from the Network of Film Distributors of Montenegro.
For the first time in the history of contemporary Montenegrin cinema, the film will be screened in four auditoriums within the Sinepleks venue at Big Fashion. Following its premiere, “Obraz” will be showcased across various cities in Montenegro throughout February and early March.
The film will make its debut in Bar on January 12, followed by a showing at the KIC “Budo Tomović” in Podgorica on February 13. Subsequently, it will be screened in Kotor and Tivat on February 14, with additional showings in Nikšić at Cinema 213 starting February 15, and continuing at the Nikšić Theatre on February 27. Other locations slated for screenings include Bijelo Polje on February 23, and Pljevlja on February 24, as well as towns such as Mojkovac, Berane, Žabljak, Zeta, Plužine, Danilovgrad, Herceg Novi, Cetinje, Kolašin, Petrovac, and Andrijevica. The film will also be presented in the newly opened Cine Grand Epic in Tivat.
Director Nikola Vukčević expressed his excitement regarding the film’s homecoming after its selection at various international festivals. “Returning home carries the greatest responsibility but also the greatest joy. I deeply believe that the audience will recognize the sincere emotion woven into this film,” he stated.
The narrative of “Obraz” unfolds during World War II on the border of Montenegro. It follows the brave flag-bearer Nur Doka, who refuses to surrender a Serbian child to the fascist units of SS Skenderbeg and SS Handžar. The child, having sought refuge in Nur’s home after the murder of his parents by fascists, becomes central to the film’s moral dilemmas. The character of Nur Doka, portrayed with compelling strength by Edon Rizvanoli, raises profound questions about the values that seem to have nearly vanished in modern Montenegro.
In addition to Rizvanoli’s performance, the film features outstanding contributions from actors of the Montenegrin National Theatre, including Aleksandar Radulović and Ana Vučković. Notably, Zef Bato Dedivanović delivers a memorable performance in his final role, while Branimir Bane Popović, Alban Ukaj, Selman Jusufi, Nikola Ristanovski, Xhejlane Terbunja, and young talents like Merisa Adžović, Hana Pavlović, Elez Adžović, and Vuk Bulajić round out the impressive cast.
With its compelling storyline and rich character portrayals, “Obraz” emerges as a significant contribution to the cinematic landscape of Montenegro. The film’s release not only promises to entertain but also invites audiences to reflect on historical and ethical issues that resonate deeply within society.
