Synopsis

Rafael, a 19-years old Roma, lives without prospects with his grandfather in impoverished circumstances. Until one day a boxing club owner takes him under his wings. Cristina is a 34-years old stage actress, wife and mother. However she has been denied success on stage. At first glance Rafael and Cristina do not have much in common, still he feels magically drawn to the mature woman. Day after day Rafael follows Cristina on her way home from rehersal and little by little the two contrasting characters find to each other. Slowly it becomes clear that there is more that unites them, than initally thought. The subtle play of narrative perspectives, its brilliant sound design and visually impressive contrast between Rafael’s training sessions and Cristina’s rehersals, which make it clear that body control is pivotal to both their diciplines, distinguish Florin Serban’s second film. Although entirely cast with amateur actors, the calm, romantic and humourous film and its cast’s outstanding acting performance were distinguished in Karlovy Vary. The film skillfully alternates between „a tight-lipped curiosity that vacillates between class-conscious social realism, brawny boxing drama and exceedingly dry romantic comedy“ (Variety).

Guests

Oana Kelemen

Oana Kelemen
Producer: Box
In Vienna: October 5-6