Watch You Carry Me

You Carry Me is a Croatian drama film directed by Ivona Juka that tells the story of three very different women who are connected by the bonds of motherhood. The movie spans three generations and explores the complex relationships between mothers and daughters, as well as the universal themes of loss, forgiveness, and redemption. The film follows Dora (Helena Beljan), a successful businesswoman and single mom who has everything she wants except for the love of her distant and difficult mother, Lila (Nataša Dorčić). Dora's world comes crashing down when her teenage daughter Janja (Lana Barić) gets involved with a dangerous drug dealer, which leads to a tragic accident that shakes the family to its core.

As the three women struggle to come to terms with their grief and guilt, they gradually learn to let go of their resentments and start to rebuild their relationships. Dora realizes that she has been repeating the same mistakes her mother made with her, while Lila comes to understand the depth of her daughter's pain and sacrifices. Janja, who has been numbing her emotions with drugs, finally confronts her fears and insecurities and finds the strength to continue her life.

One of the strengths of You Carry Me is its nuanced portrayal of the female characters, who are flawed, complex, and realistic. Dora is a workaholic who has put her career above her family, but also a loving and supportive mother who wants the best for her daughter. Lila is a narcissistic and manipulative woman who has never shown affection to her daughter, but also a vulnerable and regretful person who tries to make amends. Janja is a rebellious and impulsive girl who has made bad choices, but also a smart and sensitive person who wants to be understood.

The movie also deals with some social issues that affect Croatian society, such as drug addiction, corruption, and domestic violence. However, these topics are not explored in depth and serve mainly as plot devices to drive the narrative forward. The film's focus is on the emotional journey of the characters and their relationships, rather than on providing a social commentary or a political message.

The cinematography of You Carry Me is another highlight of the film, with its beautiful and moody shots of the Croatian landscape, architecture, and culture. The film captures the contrast between the modern and the traditional, the urban and the rural, and the individual and the collective. The music score of the film is also effective in conveying the moods and emotions of the scenes, without being too intrusive or manipulative.

Overall, You Carry Me is a touching and thought-provoking film that explores the complexities of motherhood and family dynamics in a realistic and sensitive way. It is a testament to the power of forgiveness, empathy, and resilience, and a reminder that even the most broken relationships can be healed with time, patience, and love.