Films About Yugoslavia
Films about Yugoslavia often explore the complex history, culture, and social dynamics of the region, particularly during the tumultuous periods of the 20th century. The cinematic landscape of Yugoslavia is rich with narratives that reflect the country's diverse ethnicities, political struggles, and the impact of war. Many films from this era are characterized by their critical examination of society, often blending elements of dark humor, drama, and poignant storytelling.
Here’s a list of notable films that delve into various aspects of Yugoslavian life and history:
“Underground”, 1995
Director: Emir Kusturica
Another masterpiece by Emir Kusturica, this film is a sprawling epic that spans several decades, depicting the lives of two friends during and after World War II. It critiques the political landscape of Yugoslavia through a surreal narrative that intertwines personal and national histories.
Starring: Miki Manojlovic, Lazar Ristovski, Mirjana Jokovic, Slavko Stimac, Ernst Stötzner, Srdjan «Zika» Todorovic, Mirjana Karanovic, Milena Pavlovic, Danilo «Bata» Stojkovic, Bora Todorovic, Davor Dujmovic, Dr. Nele Karajlic, Branislav Lecic, Dragan Nikolic, Erol Kadic, Predrag Zagorac, Hark Bohm, Petar Kralj, Branko Cvejic, Josif Tatic, Zdena Hurtocakova, Tatjana Kecman, Albena Stavreva, Elizabeta Djorevska, Peter Mountain, Mirsad Tuka, Batica Nikalic, Desa Biogradlija, Zoran Miljkovic, Rick Dano, Radovan Markovic, Miodrag Dordevic, Danica Zdravic, Stojan Sotirov, Aleksandra Por, Zeljko Mitrovic, Anja Popovic, Svetlana Sretenovic, Marko Stanic, Dragoljub Vojnov, Yasser Arafat, King Hussein, King Olav V, Predrag Milinkovic, Dragoljub Milosavljevic-Gula, Walter Mondale, Branko Petkovic, Prince Philip;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: war, drama, comedy;
Age: 16+;
Duration: 194 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “Underground” on the website imdb.com
“No Man's Land”, 2001
Director: Danis Tanovic
Directed by Danis Tanović, this film is set during the Bosnian War and focuses on two soldiers from opposing sides who find themselves trapped in a trench between their lines. The film highlights the absurdity of war and won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film [[2]](https://www.tasteofcinema.com/2015/20-essential-films-for-an-introduction-to-yugoslavian-cinema/).
Starring: Branko Djuric, Rene Bitorajac, Filip Sovagovic, Georges Siatidis, Serge-Henri Valcke, Sacha Kremer, Alain Eloy, Mustafa Nadarevic, Bogdan Diklic, Simon Callow, Katrin Cartlidge, Tanja Ribic, Branko Zavrsan, Djuro Utjesanovic, Mirza Tanovic, Boro Stjepanovic, Almir Kurt, Ratko Ristic, Peter Sedmak, Sasa Petrovic, Boris Cindric, Danijel Smon, Peter Prikratki, Primoz Ranik, Jure Plesec, Gordon Wilson, Maëlys De Rudder, Alan Fairairn, Michel Obenga, Rok Strehovec, Zvone Hribar, Ales Valic, Fred M. Liss, Franc Jakob Rac, Predrag Brestovac, Tadej Troha, Primoz Petkovsek, Janez Habic, Matej Bizjak, Marinko Prga, Darjan Gorela, Srecko Djumber, Uros Tatomir, Matej Reger, Matija Bulatovic, Uros Fürst, Radovan Karadzic;
Production year: 2001;
Genre: drama, comedy, war;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “No Man's Land” on the website imdb.com
“The Siege”, 1998
Director: Edward Zwick
This film, directed by the renowned filmmaker and actor, focuses on the siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War, portraying the resilience of the city's inhabitants amidst the horrors of conflict [[3]](https://www.imdb.com/list/ls000091194/).
Starring: Denzel Washington, Annette Bening, Bruce Willis, Tony Shalhoub, Sami Bouajila, Ahmed Ben Larby, Mosleh Mohamed, Lianna Pai, Mark Valley, Jack Gwaltney, David Proval, Lance Reddick, Jeremy Knaster, William Hill, Aasif Mandvi, Frank DiElsi, Wood Harris, Ellen Bethea, David Costabile, Glenn Kessler, Jeffrey Waid, Tom McDermott, Sherry Ham-Bernard, Joseph Hodge, Joey Naber, Said Faraj, Ali Afshar, Jacqueline Antaramian, Helmi Kassim, Ghoulam R. Rasoully, Joseph Badalucco Jr., Diana Naftal, Ben Shenkman, Barton Tinapp, Neal Jones, Donna Hanover, Peter Schindler, Hany Kamal, Chip Zien, Dakin Matthews, John Rothman, John Henry Cox, E. Katherine Kerr, Jimmie Ray Weeks, Will Lyman, Ray Godshall, Victor Slezak, Chris Messina, Gilbert Rosales, Amro Salama;
Production year: 1998;
Genre: action, thriller;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 116 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,4;
More information about the film “The Siege” on the website imdb.com
These films not only provide entertainment but also serve as important cultural artifacts that reflect the historical and social complexities of Yugoslavia.
In conclusion, films about Yugoslavia serve as a poignant reminder of the complex tapestry of history, culture, and identity that defined this once-unified nation. Through powerful storytelling and evocative imagery, these films explore themes of conflict, resilience, and the human spirit amidst the backdrop of war and division. They invite audiences to engage with the past, fostering a deeper understanding of the socio-political landscape that shaped the region and its people. As we reflect on these cinematic narratives, we are reminded of the importance of memory and the arts in healing and bridging divides, ensuring that the stories of Yugoslavia continue to resonate in our collective consciousness.
