Tangerines
Tangerines
Mandariinid
Mandarinebi
Directed by:
Zaza UrushadzeScreenplay:
Zaza UrushadzeCinematography:
Rein KotovPlots(1)
Set in 1992, during the growing conflict between Georgia and Abkhazian separatists in the wake of the Soviet Union's dissolution, this compassionate story focuses on two Estonian immigrant farmers who decide to remain in Georgia long enough to harvest their tangerine crop. When the fighting arrives at their doorsteps, Ivo (played by legendary Estonian actor Lembit Ulfsak) along with friend Margus (Elmo Nüganen), treat two wounded soldiers from opposite sides, Ahmed (Giorgi Nakhashidze) and Niko (Mikheil Meskhi). During their extended period of convalescence under the administration of Ivo, they are forced not only to confront the reasons that fuel their hatred for each other but also the conflict which rages around them. Tangerines is a beautifully eloquent statement for peace and the futility of bloodshed over racial and ethnic division. (Axiom Films)
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Reviews (2)
Who would have thought, that an Estonian-Georgian friendship would emerge in the field of cinematography and would be based on a story from the not so distant past when Abkhazia was swept by an ugly lady called war. Tangerines are one of the stories from this setting, and for its exotic location, it brings a very catchy, human story, to which there is nothing more to be added. It most closely resembles the Croatian movie No Man’s Land. Just as sad, and as absurd. Just like war itself.
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The film is based on a war conflict, which only has a marginal role in the story. It only serves as a backdrop to an encounter with the Man. At times, it reminded me of the 2002 film The Cuckoo, minus the sex (thank God!). There was also less humor (but it wasn’t completely devoid of it). An excellent film showing the senselessness of war and that you can keep your humanity and dignity in all circumstances if you truly want to.
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