Bosnian Cinema Comes to New York
Artist, writers and filmmakers can tell stories, raise debate and confront difficult issues that otherwise might be brushed under the carpet. Modern times have seen the valuable role played by art in appraising a country’s recent history and helping a country to accept its past.
Of course, tackling such subjects can have its own issues. In Serbia, a list was circulated naming writers, filmmakers and actors who were considered to have spoken unfavourably about the country’s recent past or social issues.
Unsurprisingly, some of these people have received direct threats and even politicians have openly criticised artists for daring to provide a perspective that does not sit well with officially sanctioned views.
Often these artists receive a more open ear abroad, where their views can be seen and heard at international film festivals, regional conferences and book events.
English Publisher Presents Serbian Classic: Hamam Balkania
With so much choice in the world today, the role of a trusted guide to seek out and present the best of what is available from a range of original sources should not be underestimated.
In literature, there are exciting worlds to be discovered beyond the realm of the cut-price supermarket reads that are more readily promoted for our attention.
With a little effort on our part and the experienced hand of sensitive publishers who are willing to seek out and share modern works from beyond borders, it is possible to enjoy and be enriched by some fascinating books.
Istros Books is a leading publisher of literature in translation. In a relatively short time, this London-based book house has become a reliable source of contemporary authors and modern classics from South Eastern Europe, and opened an English-speaking audience to a wealth of Balkan literature, poetry and political commentary.
Bulgarian Humour Translates Better on the Page than the Screen
Humour is a funny thing. What can have one person in fits of laughter can leave another entirely dumbfounded. Add cultural and social differences and the recipe often falls flat, as evidenced by the number of hit UK TV comedies that have failed to survive a trip across the pond.
As a case in point, take the misjudged US version of the phenomenally successful UK sitcom Gavin and Stacey, which was reportedly put on the back burner after the social comedy nosedived stateside.
Whereas the written word can be translated well on the page, if the translator is worth their salt, films can often find it more difficult to find an audience abroad.
Comedies have any even harder job to be accepted across borders. It is not surprising that one of the most successful comedy crossovers, Mr Bean, is devoid of dialogue that can be lost in translation.
Raindance Film Festival Gives Balkan Cinema a London Showcase
Highlights of modern Balkan cinema will get an annual airing at London’s Raindance Film Festival (25 September – 6 October).
The Raindance Film Festival has established itself as the premiere destination for the best of Balkan cinema. Each year, organisers tailor a programme of the most talked-about regional films, international festival favourites, directorial debuts and first screenings, alongside panel discussions and cast Q&As.
In the past, the films have attracted heated debate among the diaspora for their uncompromising impression of contemporary Balkan life, while some more feel-good films are praised for acknowledging the heart and humour of the region.
