Goran Stolevski, the Macedonian filmmaker behind You Won’t Be Alone and Of An Age, solidifies his place as a promising talent in cinema with his third feature. Embracing a queer aesthetic, Stolevski delves into the complexities of human nature, capturing its quirks and imperfections with empathy. While his debut delved into themes of motherhood and identity, and his second explored the dynamics of a gay romance over time, his latest work seamlessly combines elements from both while carving out its own distinct path.
Nestled within the comforting embrace of a sanctuary in North Macedonia, a makeshift family thrives under the watchful eye of Dita (Anamaria Marinca), a beacon of compassion. With her partner Suada (Alina Serban) and Suada’s children, Vanesa (Mia Mustafi) and Mia (Dzada Selim), they extend a haven of solace to the LGBTQ+ community in a world rife with adversity. Into this refuge stumbles Ali (Samson Selim), a spirited Roma youth with hair bleached as bright as his spirit, drawn by chance to their sanctuary. Initially a transient presence, Ali discovers an unexpected connection with Toni (Vladimir Tintor), Dita’s confidant, igniting a tender flame of romance. As their bond blossoms, Ali emerges as a stalwart ally to Vanesa, bridging the gap between generations, while also assuming the role of a playful guardian to Mia, their shared laughter resonating within the sanctuary’s walls like a soothing melody.
In the delicate dance of their shared existence, the tranquility of their modest home is shattered by the piercing revelation of Suada’s diagnosis. Pancreatic cancer, a cruel interloper, stealthily infiltrates their sanctuary, casting veils of uncertainty upon their once-cohesive world. Confronted with the stark reality of her mortality, Suada imparts two profound mandates upon her beloved kin: Dita, the stalwart guardian, is entrusted with the sacred mantle of motherhood, while Toni, a prism reflecting myriad identities, is tasked with veiling them in the protective cloak of his name, shielding them from the bitter sting of discrimination.
Yet, amidst these solemn vows, practicalities loom large; they navigate the labyrinth of bureaucracy, forging documents and treading through tangled webs of red tape to safeguard the fragile bonds of family. For Toni, it becomes a journey of profound introspection, navigating the intricate balance between his identity as a gay man and the shield of anonymity he extends to his kin. Meanwhile, Vanesa grapples with the precarious dance between tradition and modernity, while Dita, a pillar of resilience, forges new connections with grace and fortitude, navigating uncharted waters with quiet strength.
Housekeeping For Beginners illuminates the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals navigating inhospitable environments, serving as a poignant reflection of broader societal struggles. Through the lens of ethnicity, the narrative delves deeper, presenting a nuanced portrayal of outsiders grappling with their sense of self. Vanesa, straddling the divide between her genetic lineage and cultural detachment, finds herself ensnared in a complex web of conflicting identities. Caught between the allure of romanticized Roma culture and the harsh realities of societal expectations, she embodies the delicate balance of belonging. Within this intricate narrative framework, Stolevski skillfully navigates the exploration of inter-ethnic adoption, deftly balancing empathy and understanding.
The film bravely confronts the harsh realities of poverty within the Roma community, thoughtfully avoiding harmful stereotypes while delving into deeply unsettling issues. The film navigates these complex themes with a rare acknowledgment of the myriad perspectives at play, never compromising its powerful storytelling. Alina Serban commands attention with her brief yet unforgettable appearance, radiating a fierce charisma that lingers long after the credits roll. Conversely, Samson Selim injects the film with a refreshing sweetness, defying any attempts at stereotyping.
While Marinca and Tintor deliver understated performances, their nuanced portrayals skillfully convey the underlying turmoil beneath their calm exteriors. Through Dita and Toni’s unconventional love, the film celebrates the resilience required to uphold familial bonds amidst adversity. Meanwhile, young Dzada Selim infuses the narrative with boundless energy and heart, her improvisations capturing the whimsical connections unique to childhood.
Housekeeping For Beginners emerges as a meticulously honed creation, a testament to Stolevski’s unwavering commitment to his craft. This cinematic offering not only fulfills but surpasses the expectations set by his previous endeavors, signaling a bold evolution in the filmmaker’s trajectory. With each frame, Stolevski forges a new path, cementing his position as a beacon of promise in the realm of contemporary cinema.
Housekeeping For Beginners is currently playing in select theaters courtesy of Focus Features.
Housekeeping For Beginners emerges as a meticulously honed creation, a testament to Stolevski's unwavering commitment to his craft. This cinematic offering not only fulfills but surpasses the expectations set by his previous endeavors, signaling a bold evolution in the filmmaker's trajectory.
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GVN Rating 8
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It all started when I was a kid watching Saturday morning cartoons like the Spider-Man: Animated Series and Batman. Since then I’ve been hooked to the world of pop culture. Huge movie lover from French New Wave, to the latest blockbusters, I love them all. Huge Star Wars and Marvel geek. When I’m free from typing away at my computer, you can usually catch me watching a good flick or reading the next best comic. Come geek out with me on Twitter @somedudecody.