Dea Kulumbegashvili: A Journey Into The Depths of Human Nature Through Film

Dea Kulumbegashvili, a name that is quickly rising in the world of cinema, has already made waves with her unique storytelling approach. Though she has just made two films, her work captures the deep and often complex nature of human emotions and experiences. Her first film, Beginning, released in 2020, and her latest work, April (set to release in 2024), are vivid examples of her powerful cinematic voice.

Both films star the talented Ia Sukhitashvili and are beautifully shot on 35mm film by cinematographer Arseni Khachaturan. The visuals are rich and immersive, full of color, light, and texture, allowing viewers to feel the stories rather than just see them. In Beginning, Sukhitashvili portrays Yana, the wife of a Jehovah’s Witness preacher. The plot thickens when extremists burn down their church, setting off a chain of events that deeply impacts Yana’s relationship with her husband and son. Kulumbegashvili masterfully uses long takes, silences, and character introspection to unfold Yana’s emotional journey, drawing viewers into her inner world.

April, on the other hand, takes an even bolder stride in storytelling. It follows Nina, an obstetrician who performs illegal abortions. She finds herself in a moral and legal quagmire after one of her patients dies. The film opens with a gripping scene of childbirth, showcasing Kulumbegashvili’s fearless exploration of profound themes. The ethereal presence of a spectral woman further adds to the haunting atmosphere of April.

In a recent interview, Kulumbegashvili spoke to Scroll about her creative process and the philosophy behind her narratives. She described her writing process as somewhat chaotic, filled with detours and explorations. “I want to grasp what is real, to see those small, often invisible tragedies happening around us,” she shared. Kulumbegashvili believes that the most meaningful stories often lie in the mundane aspects of life, and she prefers to navigate intimate, personal themes over traditional grand narratives.

One of the main challenges Kulumbegashvili faced was in convincing producers of her vision. While developing Beginning, she struggled to secure funding, as many producers were puzzled by the subtleties of her script. “They asked what was really happening in the story,” she recalled. “I was even told to change the ending because it lacked hope.” Her response was clear: “I don’t create films to spread false notions of hope. I aim to showcase the true beauty of human nature, even in tragedy.” This unwavering commitment is what sets her apart as a filmmaker who isn’t afraid to delve into uncomfortable realities.

A distinctive element of Kulumbegashvili’s films is her use of sound, which she considers as critical as the visuals themselves. “Sound plays an essential role in my storytelling,” she remarked. “What we hear becomes part of the narrative.” This innovative approach not only enhances the viewing experience but also deepens the emotional resonance of her films.

In her collaboration with cinematographer Arseni Khachaturan, Kulumbegashvili thrives on a special chemistry that enhances her storytelling. They often bounce ideas off each other, even when a script is still in its infancy. “We always work closely on set,” she explained. “It’s an intimate process, and I prefer whispering to shouting during filming.” Her dynamic with Khachaturan showcases the nuanced understanding they share of each other’s artistic sensibilities.

A notable aspect of her filmmaking style is her use of long takes. “I never really thought about it,” she noted. “The film stock we use can accommodate longer shots, and I believe it helps in accumulating cinematic experience.” This method encourages audiences to engage deeply with the unfolding emotions, allowing them to feel a part of the journey.

Dea Kulumbegashvili is not just a filmmaker; she is an explorer of the human condition. Her insightful portrayal of complex emotional landscapes invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences and the realities of those around them. As her films continue to resonate globally, they remind us of the importance of authenticity in storytelling.

If you’re intrigued by films that confront the realities of life and explore human emotions in a raw and relatable way, be sure to check out Beginning and April on the MUBI streaming platform.

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Original Text – https://scroll.in/reel/1084973/beginning-and-april-director-interview-i-make-films-to-grasp-the-true-beauty-of-human-nature?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=public