This is a black comedy geared toward a specific viewership. The movie charts much of Yugoslavia's history, beginning with its occupation by Germany during World War II and continuing through its eventual fragmentation. The story unfolds through the experiences of a few central characters: Marko and Blacky, who are friends but end up on very different trajectories; one rises to a position of power within the Communist Party, while the other becomes the leader of an underground arms factory that allows him to accumulate wealth. Emir Kusturica directed this rather surreal and perplexing film, which seems intended for a particular audience—one I don’t quite fit into. There's a pervasive cynicism throughout, especially when you consider how critically the director approached the project: it doesn’t attempt to explain historical events, instead assuming familiarity with them, and manipulates those events to critique our perception of war heroes. I really don't feel like discussing the actors much because I am unfamiliar with them. Nevertheless, I think they did a commendable job given the nature of the film and the director’s vision. The script is full of dark humor, occasionally bordering on questionable territory, and there are several plot points that prompt questions about believability. For instance, it's hard to accept how a group could remain hidden underground for an extended period without any awareness of what’s happening in the world above them. It just doesn't seem realistic. From a technical standpoint, the film boasts impressive sets and strong cinematography. The editing, however, is somewhat flawed; the movie struggles to maintain a consistent rhythm, with several scenes feeling unnecessarily prolonged. But most frustrating was the overly assertive soundtrack, dominated by a brass band and songs that have an appropriate Slavic feel but are excessively loud and showy.
On September 22, 2026
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