Synopsis

It’s the 1980s when hunters discover a feral boy in Bosnia’s deep woods who seems to have been brought up by and with wolves without any human contact. He is given the name Haris and is put into an orphanage in Belgrade. The other orphans start to mock him soon, calling him various names. Except one boy named Žika, who Haris is able to befriend at least a little. Unfortunately, the counsellors in the orphanage aren’t providing real support for him either. Though, there is one guardian who doesn’t give up the boy just right away. While Pucke, which is what Haris is called in his new home, gradually develops into a somewhat socialised human being over the years, the civilisation around him starts to break down. Yugoslavia begins to separate, ethical conflicts arise, and in 1992 the catastrophe reaches the former feral child: He has to return to Bosnia, where meanwhile a cruel war is raging. The highly praised debut film of the Serbian director Vuk Ršumović powerfully and realistically outlines the fact-based and touching story of Haris with great perception and effectiveness. International critics especially emphasised the poignant depiction of the title character. What does being human actually mean? No One’s Child doesn’t only ask important questions, but gives necessary answers as well.

Guests

Vuk Rsumovic

Vuk Ršumović
Director, writer, producer No One's Child
In Vienna: October 7-9