Georgian cinema’s new wave: A blend of tradition and innovation
A new era for Georgian cinema
Georgian producer Tekla Machavariani, known for her innovative approach to filmmaking, has unveiled an exciting slate of new features at her Tbilisi-based production company, Nushi Film. This announcement comes on the heels of the world premiere of director Tato Kotetishvili’s “Holy Electricity” at the Locarno Film Festival, where it competed in the Filmmakers of the Present section.
Bridging cultures: The first Georgian-Japanese co-production
One of the standout projects is “The Dog is Barking,” an ambitious feature debut from contemporary artist Vajiko Chachkhiani. This film marks the first co-production between Georgia and Japan, a collaboration that promises to be as unique as it is groundbreaking. The film is inspired by the brutal Georgian Civil War of the early 1990s and aims to begin production in early 2025.
A unique collaboration
The project boasts an impressive team, including prolific Japanese scriptwriter Sakichi Sato and cinematographer Kôichi Furuya. Japanese producer Tomo Suzuki and German production outfit Color of May have also joined the venture. This film is billed as the first installment of a “labor horror” trilogy, blending social drama, suspense, and horror to create a distinctive style of auteur cinema.
Tekla Machavariani reflects on this collaboration: “Japanese and Georgian cultures are so different, yet we share a deep appreciation for our traditions. This film aims to merge these cultural elements in a way that feels both natural and innovative.”
A journey through history: “Vika”
Another highly anticipated project is “Vika,” the third feature from director Tamar Shavgulidze. This film follows the eponymous character, a 27-year-old basketball player who flees her war-torn hometown with her husband. Their journey through the impassable Caucasus Mountains is fraught with challenges, leading Vika to face an impossible choice.
A story of hope and perseverance
Machavariani describes “Vika” as her “passion project,” highlighting its focus on a very dark time in recent Georgian history. “It’s a very human story,” she says. “Tamar’s films always emphasize the power of love and how it can give you the strength to overcome even the most daunting obstacles.”
The voice of a generation: “Milk & Honey”
Set in the early 2000s, “Milk & Honey” is a Georgian-French co-production from debut director Tornike Gogrichiani. The film explores the life of a high-schooler navigating love, hip-hop, identity, family, and friendship in the crime-ridden streets of Tbilisi.
A reflection on youth and identity
“This film talks about our childhood and why our generation is the way it is today,” says Machavariani. “It’s a reflection on our past and an attempt to understand our present.”
The magic of “Holy Electricity”
“Holy Electricity,” which recently premiered at the Locarno Film Festival, is the directorial debut of veteran Georgian cinematographer Tato Kotetishvili. The film follows two hapless cousins who find a suitcase full of rusty crosses in a scrapyard and decide to turn them into neon crucifixes to sell door-to-door.
A unique vision
Machavariani praises Kotetishvili’s unique vision: “He’s one of the most interesting cinematographers and directors. His work is instantly recognizable, filled with humor and humanity.”
A bright future for Georgian cinema
With these exciting new projects, Tekla Machavariani and Nushi Film are poised to make a significant impact on the global cinema landscape. Each film offers a unique perspective, blending Georgian traditions with innovative storytelling techniques.
For more information and to watch the trailers, visit the following links:
These films not only showcase the rich cultural heritage of Georgia but also highlight the country’s ability to produce compelling, globally relevant cinema.