A new vision of paradise: Mladen Kovačević’s ‘Possibility of Paradise’ debuts at Venice Days
A cinematic journey to Bali
Serbian filmmaker Mladen Kovačević is set to captivate audiences with his latest documentary, Possibility of Paradise, which will have its world premiere on September 3 at Venice Days, an independent sidebar to the prestigious Venice Film Festival. This film, shot on the idyllic island of Bali, delves into the lives of individuals in search of a new Eden. The narrative explores the juxtaposition of happiness and existential angst, offering a profound reflection on what it means to inhabit an earthly paradise that is not culturally ours.
A bold vision of paradise
Venice Days describes the documentary as a “bold vision, subtly rendered,” highlighting the intricate balance between joy and ethical dilemmas. The film’s masterful cinematography and Kovačević’s unique cinematic voice create a thought-provoking experience that resonates deeply with viewers. Irena Taskovski, CEO and head of acquisitions at Taskovski Films, praises the film for its ability to serve as a mirror to many of us, reflecting our own desires and fears.
Behind the scenes: Production and support
Possibility of Paradise is produced by Iva Plemić Divjak and Kovačević under Serbia’s Horopter Film Production. The project is co-produced by Sweden’s MDEMC Produktion and has received support from Film Centre Serbia, Serbia’s Ministry of Culture, and the Swedish Film Institute. This international collaboration underscores the film’s universal themes and its appeal to a global audience.
Kovačević’s cinematic journey
Mladen Kovačević is no stranger to the documentary scene. His previous works have garnered critical acclaim and have been featured at various international film festivals. His 2013 documentary, Unplugged, was showcased at Hot Docs and Visions du Réel. In 2016, Wall of Death and All That also screened at Visions du Réel. 4 Years in 10 Minutes (2018) received a special mention from the jury at Visions du Réel, while Merry Christmas, Yiwu (2020) premiered at Rotterdam and won best documentary at Sarajevo. His most recent work, Another Spring (2022), debuted at Karlovy Vary.
Future projects
Kovačević continues to push the boundaries of documentary filmmaking. He is currently working on the docu-fiction Koryo and developing a fiction feature titled Behind the Curtains, Behind the Trees. These upcoming projects promise to further showcase his distinctive storytelling style and his ability to capture the complexities of human experience.
A personal reflection for cinema enthusiasts
As a cinema enthusiast, I find Kovačević’s work to be a refreshing departure from conventional storytelling. His films invite viewers to ponder deeper questions about existence, culture, and the human condition. Possibility of Paradise is no exception. The film’s exploration of an earthly paradise that is not culturally ours challenges us to reflect on our own perceptions of happiness and belonging.
For those interested in experiencing this thought-provoking documentary, you can watch the trailer and find more information here.
A deeper dive into the themes
The themes explored in Possibility of Paradise are particularly relevant in today’s world, where the search for happiness often leads us to distant, exotic locations. The film raises important questions about the sustainability of such pursuits and the ethical implications of inhabiting spaces that are not inherently ours. It challenges us to consider the impact of our actions on the environment and the local communities.
Final thoughts
Possibility of Paradise is a must-watch for anyone interested in documentaries that push the boundaries of conventional storytelling. Kovačević’s unique vision and the film’s stunning cinematography offer a captivating and thought-provoking experience. As we navigate our own searches for happiness and meaning, this film serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and ethical considerations that come with such pursuits.
For more information and to watch the trailer, click here.