Vchera

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  • 1988
  • 1 hr 24 min
  • 8.9  (3,426)

Vchera is a Bulgarian drama film released in 1988. Directed by Ivan Andonov, the movie stars Hristo Shopov, Georgi Staykov, and Sofiya Kuzeva in leading roles. The film deals with the theme of the Bulgarian revolution of 1944 and presents an inquiry into the politics and human condition of that era. The film's story is set in Sofia during the 24 hours preceding the communist coup of September 9, 1944, and portrays the lives of a group of people whose opinions and aspirations are changed radically by the impending revolution. The story unfolds in the backdrop of the political turmoil that shakes Bulgaria to its core. The film's title, Vchera, which means "yesterday" in English, refers to the passing of an era and the beginning of a new one.

The film follows the lives of several prominent characters whose lives are deeply affected by the turn of events. One of the main characters is Rada (Sofiya Kuzeva), the wife of the ex-prime minister of Bulgaria, who is in hiding due to his opposition to the communist regime. Rada is struggling with her personal demons and trying to come to terms with her husband's decision to oppose the looming revolution. Meanwhile, her daughter Lena (Dimitrina Zhivkova) is falling in love with a passionate young communist, who is trying to convince her to join the cause.

Another main character is Bogomil (Georgi Staykov), a middle-aged intellectual, who is disillusioned with the communist party and wants out. He is a friend of Rada's husband, and the two men share a deep bond that transcends political affiliations. As the revolution approaches, Bogomil is forced to make a choice that will define his life forever.

Hristo Shopov plays Stefan, a young student who has joined the communist party to fight the oppression of the old order. Stefan is a talented orator and a charismatic figure, who is passionate about bringing about social change. He is in love with a fellow communist, but their relationship is threatened by the ruthless politics of the times.

As the revolution approaches, each character is forced to confront their deepest fears and desires. The film juxtaposes the personal struggles of the characters with the larger political struggle of Bulgaria at that time. The director has used a nonlinear narrative style to present the story in a more complex and layered way.

The film's visual style is somber and stark, reflecting the emotional intensity of the story. The cinematography and the use of light and shadow enhance the mood of the film and give it a distinctive look. The music score, by Alexander Alexandrov, is haunting and evocative, adding another layer of emotive depth to the proceedings.

Overall, Vchera is a powerful and thought-provoking film that delves deep into the human condition in the midst of political upheaval. It presents a nuanced and complex view of the Bulgarian revolution and its aftermath, and the toll it takes on the lives of ordinary people. The performances by the cast are uniformly excellent, and the direction and writing are top-notch, making Vchera a classic of Bulgarian cinema.

Vchera
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Description
  • Release Date
    1988
  • Runtime
    1 hr 24 min
  • Language
    Bulgarian
  • IMDB Rating
    8.9  (3,426)