blackbird Blackbird Blackberry (2023)

Elene Naveriani - 2023 - 110' - Georgia - Georgian, English subs

Based on a book of the same name by Tamta Melashvili, Blackbird Blackbird Blackberry (2023) by Elene Naveriani, is a quiet and subtle film, though also strong and sensual. Through colours, careful composition and depictions of Georgias landscape, the film develops a distinctive look that hints at Naveriani’s background in both painting and film studies.

Etero lives in a little village in Georgia leading a quiet yet content life. Her friends and neighbours do not hold back on criticism for Etero’s lack of a husband and children. When she at 48- years old loses her virginity and falls in love, the life she is so used to begins to shift. With a warm soundscape, subtle humorous aspects, and sensuality on many levels, this film draws you in in several ways. It’s colours and composition sometimes reminding of Aki Kaurismäki’s films, but set in a somewhat warmer climate.