The much-anticipated film ‘Obraz’, directed by Montenegrin filmmaker Nikola Vukčević, will have its official premiere on February 11, 2024, at 20:00 in the Sinepleks cinema located in Podgorica. This significant event marks the beginning of the film’s theatrical release in Montenegro, as confirmed by the Montenegro Film Distributors Network.
In a historic first for modern Montenegrin cinema, the film will screen in four auditoriums at Sinepleks within the Big Fashion shopping center. Following its premiere, ‘Obraz’ will be showcased in various cities across the nation throughout February and early March.
Film’s National Tour and Background
The film’s journey will begin in Bar on January 12, followed by a screening at the KIC ‘Budo Tomović’ in Podgorica on February 13. The following day, it will be presented in Kotor and Tivat. In Nikšić, screenings will continue on February 15 at Cinema 213 and again on February 27 at the Nikšić Theatre. Other cities set to host screenings include Bijelo Polje on February 23 and Pljevlja on February 24, along with locations such as Mojkovac, Berane, Žabljak, Zeta, Plužine, Danilovgrad, Herceg Novi, Cetinje, Kolašin, Petrovac, and Andrijevica. Additionally, screenings will occur at the newly opened Cine Grand Epic in Tivat.
Film’s Storyline and Cast Highlights
‘Obraz’ is set during World War II, focusing on the character of Nur Doka, portrayed by Albanian actor Edon Rizvanoli. The narrative revolves around Doka’s moral struggle as he defies fascist units, specifically the SS Skenderbeg and SS Handžar, to protect a Christian child who has sought refuge in his home after the murder of his parents by fascist forces. The film explores themes of moral integrity and the enduring values that seem to have diminished in contemporary Montenegro.
Alongside Rizvanoli, the film features notable performances from actors of the Montenegrin National Theatre, including Aleksandar Radulović and Ana Vučković, as well as Zef Bato Dedivanović in his final role. The cast also includes Branimir Bane Popović, Alban Ukaj, Selman Jusufi, Nikola Ristanovski, Xhejlane Terbunja, and young talents Merisa Adžović, Hana Pavlović, Elez Adžović, and Vuk Bulajic.
Director Nikola Vukčević expressed his excitement about the film’s return home after its selections at international festivals, stating, “This return carries the greatest responsibility but also the greatest joy. I firmly believe that the audience will recognize the sincere emotion that we wove into this film.”
As Montenegro prepares for the premiere, the film community and audiences alike are eager to experience this significant contribution to their national cinema. ‘Obraz’ promises to be not only a cinematic achievement but also a poignant reflection on the values of courage and humanity during tumultuous times.
