Critique of Romanian Film - Priced Prizes: Cabbage Cost, Plus Other Various Presentations.
In a revised and refreshed take:
A decade ago, filmmaker S̋erban Georgescu embarked on an intriguing endeavor, purchasing 250 kg of cabbages for a mere 10 euros to sow and sell the produce after a year of grueling labor and expenses. This humble experiment was the genesis of Cabbage, Potatoes, and Other Demons, a documentary that got a sequel recently, titled Cabbage, Potatoes, and Other Demons. 10 Years Later. Returning to the quaint village of Lungulet̆u, Georgescu revisits the past and present, uncovering changes and unsurprising revelations.
This sequel subtly interweaves the initial footage with new segments, offering a riveting re-watch experience. Agriculture in Romania, a sector plagued by centuries-old communist debt and a blend of state incompetence and lack of collective thinking, becomes resoundingly clear through this film. Despite the disheartening realities of the industry, Georgescu's film deftly tackles complex topics while maintaining a witty tone and an infectious affection for the people he encounters.
Playing a relatable protagonist, Georgescu's storytelling approach endears both the documentary and its lessons, ensuring that viewers will never view cabbages the same way again. Cabbage, Potatoes, and Other Demons. 10 Years Later can be streamed online for free, so don't hesitate to watch it here.
recent local productions are gracing the city of Brasov, a place near and dear to my heart. I've grown up in its vicinity and have made frequent visits over the years, always yearning for a more dynamic cultural scene. Fingers crossed that the right mix of time, enthusiasm, and local political support will eventually make it a reality.
One of the city's poster child cinemas, Cinema Astra, remains a beacon of hope. Once a state-owned cinema, it has been refurbished and reopened to the public, occasionally hosting festivals and events. Although transparency regarding opening hours and the cinema's focus would be beneficial, it's heartening to see it operational again after a long hiatus. From now until 29 April, it's showcasing CinemaUniT, an eclectic mix of classics, contemporary films, animation, documentaries, ethnographic content, and music. It's a varied assortment meant to cater to a wide audience.
Among the highlights, Maria s̋i Mirabela în Tranzistoria, a delightful animation by Ioan Popescu-Gopo, stands out. Nicolae Corjos' classic romantic film, Confessions of Love, also deserves mention. For newer releases, Three Kilometres to the End of the World, directed by Emanuel Pârvu, and The New Year That Never Came, by Bogdan Mureșanu, were two of the most discussed and viewed films of last year. Admission is free, and the projections come accompanied by talks with filmmakers and guests. Separate discussions and masterclasses (such as literary adaptations) are hosted by Transilvania University of Brasov.
This sojourn into the cinematic treasure trove of Brasov was penned by Ioana Moldovan, our esteemed columnist. (Photo credit: still from Cabbage, Potatoes and Other Demons, courtesy of Kolectiv Film)
In the cultural revival of Brasov, a city dear to the writer's heart, the reopened Cinema Astra is showcasing a diverse range of films until April 29th, including documentaries like Cabbage, Potatoes, and Other Demons. 10 Years Later. This sequel, streaming online for free, interweaves the past and present of agriculture in Romania, making it a must-watch for those interested in food-and-drink, home-and-garden, lifestyle, and cookings-related topics. balancing various genres such as classics, contemporary films, animation, ethnographic content, and music, this event at Cinema Astra offers a captivating glimpse into the city's vibrant film scene.
