Georgian filmmaker Tato Kotetishvili’s journey from Locarno to Sarajevo
A new chapter begins
Georgian filmmaker Tato Kotetishvili, who recently made waves with his debut feature film Holy Electricity, is already gearing up for his next ambitious project. This upcoming docufiction will follow a Georgian family as they attempt to cross the Mexican border into the United States. The film promises to be a gripping exploration of migration, seen through the innocent eyes of a child.
Holy Electricity: A festival favorite
Kotetishvili’s Holy Electricity has been a standout at film festivals, winning the Golden Leopard in the Concorso Cineasti del Presente section at the Locarno Film Festival. The film is now set to compete at the Sarajevo Film Festival, where it is expected to draw significant attention. You can catch a glimpse of the film by watching the Holy Electricity trailer.
A unique narrative style
Holy Electricity tells the story of two cousins who stumble upon a suitcase filled with rusty crosses in a scrapyard. They decide to transform these crosses into neon crucifixes and sell them door-to-door in Tbilisi. The film’s episodic narrative captures the comedy and pathos of everyday life, making it a heartfelt ode to the people of the Georgian capital.
Personal reflections and inspirations
Speaking from Tbilisi, Kotetishvili shared that the film draws heavily from his own life experiences. His peripatetic lifestyle often takes him to the fringes of his hometown, where he finds inspiration in the people and places he encounters. “Every time I’m looking for characters and locations. Sometimes, the locations themselves give me the possibility [to shoot]. I follow my heart, my intuition,” he said.
The magic of non-professional actors
One of the standout features of Holy Electricity is its use of non-professional actors. Kotetishvili believes that working with non-professionals allows him to cast people who can fully inhabit their roles, making the performances more authentic. The film stars Nikolo Ghviniashvili and Nika Gongadze, both of whom were discovered in unique circumstances that seemed almost fated.
A city and its people
The film’s setting in Tbilisi is not just a backdrop but an essential part of the narrative. The city’s inhabitants, filmed in their actual homes, reveal a place steeped in extreme religiosity and everyday struggles. This rich tapestry of characters adds depth to the film, making it a compelling watch.
Looking ahead to Sarajevo
Kotetishvili is now aiming to become the fourth Georgian filmmaker to win top honors at the Sarajevo Film Festival. He believes that the connection between Sarajevo and Georgian cinema lies in their shared history of struggle and the quest for identity. The Sarajevo Film Festival runs from August 16 to 23, and Holy Electricity is one of the most anticipated films in the lineup.
Final thoughts
For cinema enthusiasts, Holy Electricity offers a unique blend of humor, pathos, and social commentary. The film’s success at Locarno and its upcoming competition at Sarajevo are testaments to Kotetishvili’s talent and vision. As he prepares for his next project, audiences can look forward to more compelling stories from this promising filmmaker.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the Holy Electricity trailer.
Music enthusiasts: Discover new sounds
A journey through soundscapes
For those who find solace in music, discovering new albums and songs can be a deeply enriching experience. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, or electronic music, there’s always something new to explore.
Spotify: Your gateway to new music
Spotify is a fantastic platform for discovering new music. You can start your journey by checking out the latest releases and curated playlists. For instance, if you’re a fan of rock music, you might enjoy the album Album Name.
Personal reflections on music
Music has the power to transport us to different worlds and evoke a wide range of emotions. It’s a universal language that connects people across cultures and generations. Whether you’re listening to a classic album or discovering a new artist, the experience is always unique and personal.
Final thoughts
For music enthusiasts, the journey of discovery never ends. Platforms like Spotify make it easier than ever to explore new sounds and expand your musical horizons. So, take a moment to dive into the world of music and let it enrich your life.
For more information and to listen to the album, visit Album Name.