55th IFFI’s Closing Film ‘Dry Season’ is a Tale of Humanity, Sustainability, and Generational bonds.

 

55th IFFI’s Closing Film ‘Dry Season’ is a Tale of Humanity, Sustainability, and Generational bonds

"Destroying nature is destroying life itself— ‘Dry Season’ is a call to reconnect with the environment and each other:” Sláma, Director

“Writing is a solitary journey; directing is about collaboration and trust": Bohdan

"This is also a story about the generations and the connection between them. Especially the young people who want to save the world at the moment": Petr Oukropec, Producer

#IFFIWood, 28 November 2024

 

The Press Conference for the much-anticipated closing film ‘Dry Season’ (originally titled Sukho), directed by the acclaimed Bohdan Sláma and produced by Petr Oukropec, was held as part of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Organized by the Press Information Bureau, the event highlighted the film's poignant exploration of environmental and generational challenges.

Set amidst verdant fields, the story follows Josef, a fifty-year-old farmer striving for an alternative lifestyle with his wife Eva and their three children. Josef's clash with Viktor, a profit-driven agribusiness owner, intensifies as a dry summer leaves the village without drinking water, sparking tensions between their families, complicated further by Viktor's strained bond with his returning son.

Director Bohdan Sláma reflected on the universal bond between humans and the environment, underlining the need to protect natural resources as a reflection of safeguarding the human spirit. He spoke about the meticulous journey of crafting the screenplay, which took three years and underwent 11 revisions, and expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the cast and producers that enriched the filmmaking process.

Producer Petr Oukropec shared the complexities of financing and creating art-house cinema in smaller nations, emphasizing the significance of international collaborations. He lauded the film’s relevance, resonating with global audiences by addressing themes of sustainability, family, and generational divides.

The filmmakers urged younger audiences to take ownership of their future, as the narrative serves as a mirror to pressing contemporary issues. Concluding the session, Bohdan Sláma expressed hope that Dry Season would spark meaningful conversations, not just in India but across the world, reminding audiences of the delicate balance between humanity and nature.

Later during the screening of the film, director Bohdan Sláma also shared his experience of being in Goa and expressed, "We have been here for a few days and we found such a lot of nice people, and we hope that our movie, which is about human relations—with nature and water—will resonate. We are sharing a story about humanity and I hope you will understand the story."

The Closing Film, Dry Season , which received deep appreciation and applause from festival delegates, deeply resonates through its portrayal of a range of emotions, reminding us that adaptability and balance are key in navigating both climate and personal crises. The film highlights the importance of hope and humor, even in the most challenging moments