Watch The Optimists

The Optimists is a heartwarming and poignant film that explores the power of human connection and the importance of optimism and hope. Directed by Goran Paskaljevic, the movie was released in 2001 and is set in contemporary Serbia, a country still reeling from the effects of war and conflict. The film tells the story of a group of elderly musicians who come together to perform a benefit concert to raise money for a young boy in need of a life-saving operation. The musicians, who have led full and varied lives but now find themselves struggling to make ends meet, are hesitant at first to take on such a daunting task, but they soon realize that the power of music can transcend the boundaries of age, culture, and language.

Throughout the film, we follow the journeys of several key characters, each with their own unique stories and struggles. There is Bora, played by Lazar Ristovski, a once-successful composer who now works as a street musician to support his family. Then there is Kosta, played by Miki Manojlovic, an eccentric cellist who lives in a rundown apartment with his beloved cat.

As the concert approaches, we see the musicians come out of their shells and form an unlikely bond with one another. They swap stories, reminisce about the past, and share their fears and hopes for the future. Their music becomes a metaphor for the human experience, a universal language that speaks to the heart and soul of all who listen.

At the same time, the film also grapples with larger themes of identity and national belonging. The musicians, who hail from different parts of the former Yugoslavia, must navigate their own complex relationships to the country that they call home. For some, the past is still raw and painful, and the scars of war are still fresh. For others, the music itself serves as a way to heal and bring people together.

Throughout it all, The Optimists remains a celebration of the human spirit, a testament to the power of perseverance and hope in the face of adversity. With its beautifully shot scenery and captivating musical performances, the film is a feast for the senses that will leave viewers feeling uplifted and inspired.

In terms of its performances, The Optimists features a standout cast of seasoned actors who bring depth and nuance to their roles. Ristovski, in particular, gives a powerful performance as Bora, a man struggling to come to terms with his own past mistakes while also providing for his family in the present. Manojlovic also shines as Kosta, a quirky and free-spirited musician who provides moments of comic relief even in the darkest of times.

Overall, The Optimists is a touching and poignant film that speaks to the universal truths of the human experience. It is a testament to the human capacity for resilience and hope, and a celebration of the power of art to transcend borders and bring people together. Whether you are a lover of music or simply a seeker of inspiration, this film is not to be missed.

The Optimists is a 2002 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.5 and a MetaScore of 66.