'Pred dozhdot' (Before the Rain) stands out as an exceptional film, skillfully combining three separate storylines to create a thoughtful and sorrowful examination of how animosity, violence, and ethnic clashes tend to repeat themselves. Taking place in Macedonia during the early 1990s, it examines the damaging effects of war on personal connections and the unfortunate tendency for history to echo itself. What makes the film truly remarkable is its narrative structure, which goes against conventional storytelling methods to highlight this recurring pattern of violence. The non-sequential arrangement of events blurs distinctions between different time periods, creating a sense of permanence that emphasizes the lasting nature of human conflict. The cinematography is also striking; the Manaki Brothers’ beautiful views of Macedonia provide a stark contrast with the harshness shown on screen. Ultimately, it's the film's unfortunately relevant message that has the biggest impact. Its look at tensions between Orthodox Christians and Albanian Muslims offers a sobering reminder of conflicts happening in the world now. The characters aren’t just portrayed as innocent bystanders or those responsible for harm; they are complicated people trapped within the larger course of historical events. 'Pred dozhdot' is a beautiful, affecting film that provides a relevant and enduring caution against prejudice and animosity.

Source on TMDB