Bruno Anković’s directorial debut, Celebration (Proslava), adapted from Damir Karakaš’s novel, offers a profound and unsettling examination of the human cost of war and the insidious rise of fascism. Set against the backdrop of Croatia between 1926 and 1945, the film delves into the life of Mijo, a villager whose journey reflects the broader societal transformations and moral dilemmas of the era.
Narrative Structure and Thematic Depth
Anković employs a non-linear narrative, a choice that mirrors the fragmented nature of memory and trauma. The film opens in the autumn of 1945, introducing us to Mijo (portrayed by Bernard Tomić) as a soldier in hiding, navigating the treacherous aftermath of World War II. This initial portrayal of Mijo’s disheveled appearance and palpable fear sets a tone of suspense and introspection, inviting viewers to piece together the events that led to this moment.
The narrative then shifts to various pivotal moments in Mijo’s life:
- Summer 1933: A younger Mijo resides with his family in a small Croatian village. The creeping influence of a fascist regime becomes evident as villagers are subjected to arbitrary and oppressive edicts. In a particularly poignant scene, Mijo is compelled to abandon his beloved dog in the woods, a mandate stemming from a soldier’s injury caused by a dog bite. This act underscores the dehumanizing effects of authoritarianism and the erosion of personal freedoms.
- Winter 1926: The film provides a harrowing glimpse into the unrelenting hardships of rural life. Mijo’s family grapples with poverty and the burden of caring for his aging grandfather. In a heart-wrenching decision, Mijo’s father carries the frail patriarch up a snow-covered mountain, leaving him to succumb to the elements. This act, while morally complex, highlights the desperation and harsh realities faced by those in impoverished circumstances.
- Spring 1941: An adult Mijo, accompanied by two companions, embarks on a journey to attend a local celebration marking the declaration of the Independent State of Croatia, a Nazi puppet state. This gathering symbolizes the normalization of fascist ideology and the societal complicity that often accompanies such regimes.
Through these vignettes, Anković illustrates the transformation of Mijo from an innocent youth to a man ensnared by the tides of history. The film refrains from providing explicit details about Mijo’s enlistment or his specific allegiances during the war, a deliberate choice that emphasizes the universality of his experience and invites viewers to reflect on the broader human condition.
Cinematic Craftsmanship
Anković’s meticulous direction is evident in every frame of Celebration. The film’s visual aesthetic is characterized by natural lighting and a muted color palette, effectively conveying the bleakness and austerity of the era. Cinematographer Aleksandar Pavlović captures the stark beauty of the Croatian landscape, juxtaposing serene environments with the characters’ internal and external struggles.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for a contemplative exploration of its themes. Editor Tomislav Stojanović ensures a cohesive narrative flow, despite the non-linear structure, maintaining a sense of continuity and emotional resonance.
Sound design plays a crucial role in immersing the audience in Mijo’s world. The minimalistic score by Alen and Nenad Sinkauz, complemented by Julij Zornik’s evocative soundscapes, enhances the film’s atmospheric tension. The use of diegetic sounds, such as the crunch of snow underfoot or distant animal calls, further grounds the narrative in its rural setting.
Performance and Characterization
Bernard Tomić delivers a nuanced performance as Mijo, capturing the character’s evolution with subtlety and depth. His portrayal conveys a spectrum of emotions, from youthful innocence to war-weary disillusionment, often through minimal dialogue and expressive body language.
The supporting cast, including Krešimir Mikić and Klara Fiolić, enrich the narrative with authentic and compelling performances. Their interactions with Mijo provide insight into the communal and familial dynamics of the time, highlighting the moral complexities faced by individuals under oppressive regimes.
Historical Context and Social Commentary
Celebration offers a raw and immersive glimpse into the harsh realities of life in Croatia during a tumultuous period. The film delves into the societal and political upheavals that characterized the era, highlighting the insidious rise of fascism and its dehumanizing effects on individuals and communities. Through Mijo’s personal journey, the narrative reflects broader themes of oppression, resistance, and the moral complexities faced by those living under authoritarian regimes.
The film’s portrayal of the villagers’ struggles serves as a microcosm of the broader societal challenges of the time. The creeping influence of fascism is depicted through subtle yet impactful scenes, such as the forced abandonment of pets or the oppressive presence of soldiers in the village. These moments underscore the arbitrary cruelty and pervasive control exerted by the regime, illustrating how authoritarianism permeates everyday life and erodes the social fabric.
Conclusion
Celebration is a visually compelling and thought-provoking film that captures a pivotal era in Balkan history. While its themes and messages might not resonate equally with every viewer, it succeeds as an engaging and evocative exploration of the human cost of war and fascism. The film’s open-ended conclusion, with Mijo’s fate left unknown, serves as a poignant reminder of the countless lives left unresolved in the wake of war and political upheaval. Anković’s directorial debut marks him as a filmmaker to watch, offering a nuanced and impactful narrative that lingers long after the credits roll.
In summary, Celebration stands as a testament to the power of cinema to explore complex historical and moral landscapes, providing a lens through which to examine the enduring impacts of war and authoritarian rule. It may not offer easy answers, but its haunting portrayal of one man’s journey through history is a cinematic experience that demands reflection.
Rating: 7/10
Do you have an inspiring story or idea to share? Email us at [email protected]. We’d love to feature your work!
