No faithful movie about the Holocaust is going to be an easy watch. But they have long served as powerful reminders of unbridled human evil and they have testified to the resilience and bravery of many who suffered and died as a result of the atrocities. The upcoming Serbian historical drama “Dara of Jasenovac” tells a unique story from the Holocaust, one concentrated on the genocide of Serbs in the Independent State of Croatia. The film is directed by Predrag Antonijević and is the Serbian entry for Best International Film at the upcoming Oscars.
Antonijević and writer Nataša Drakulić tell their harrowing story through the eyes of a 12-year-old girl named Dara played by the expressive Biljana Čekić. With their country crumbling and the majority of local Serbs being rounded up, Dara along with her mother and two brothers are sent to Jasenovac concentration camp. The new trailer shows the horrors of the death camp but also a young girl’s willingness to give her all to survive. It’s tough material but the period design looks fantastic and its unflinching perspective looks powerful and immersive.
“Dara of Jasenovac” is set to premiere in the US on February 5th. Check out the trailer below and let me know if you’ll be seeing it or taking a pass.
Keith & the Movies 
Looks like a really tough one, Keith. Not sure if I can bear to watch it. I’m glad they continue to make movies that educate on the horrors and explore any areas that haven’t been highlighted before. I wish they would do one on how the LGBTQI+, Gypsies, and other “etc.” people were treated. I read a book several years ago, by Isabel Fonseca, called, “Bury Me Standing,” about how the Roma (aka Gypsies) have been treated over time, including during WWII.
I’m thinking it’s going to be tough but I’m anxious to give it a look. I have a screener on the way so it shouldn’t be long.
I’m not looking for insider information (well maybe I am lol) but how to get screeners? If you can’t tell me I understand.
Oh, I don’t mind. It’s mainly from press credentials. Being a part of two film critics groups helps. Through them I’ve been able to make some good connections with studios and publicity teams.
Ah, good to know! Thanks much, Keith.
Read this out to my dh and we will be doing it. Though I’m trepidatious.
It looks tough for sure. Hopefully I’ll know soon. Hope to give it a look this weekend.
This looks like a good movie but the trailer seems to make it very melodramatic. I don’t know.
Hmm. I didn’t really get that vibe but it’s often hard to tell by a trailer. I’m anxious to see it. Hoping to this weekend.
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