Ana Urushadze Reflects on Georgian Film Industry Challenges Amid Sarajevo Premiere

Ana Urushadze, a prominent figure in the Georgian film landscape, has expressed grave concerns about the current state of the industry, describing it as being in a "dead-end situation." This bleak perspective arises from widespread boycotts against the Georgian National Film Center (GNFC) by directors, producers, and writers, who are protesting issues including censorship.

In the midst of these challenges, Urushadze's latest film, "Supporting Role," is making its debut at the Sarajevo Film Festival, marking a significant moment nine years after her critically acclaimed film, "Scary Mother." The new film revolves around Niaz Ninua, portrayed by Dato Bakhtadze, a once-celebrated film star grappling with change and self-discovery after an encounter with a young female director, Aza.

Urushadze describes her film as an exploration of reality's elusive nature and the importance of taking control of one’s own narrative. As Niaz embarks on a journey through Tbilisi, he interacts with various characters, leading to a profound transformation. The director notes that the film subtly addresses generational gaps and creative liberation through its storytelling.

Reflecting on her creative process, Urushadze reveals that the inspiration for Niaz's character emerged from her own experiences casting her debut film. She recalls an encounter with an older actor who was dismissive of her youth, which sparked her interest in portraying the complexities of male ego and fragility.

Despite the turmoil within Georgia's film industry, Urushadze feels optimistic about her presence at the festival. She emphasizes the significance of networking and sharing ideas in such a challenging climate. Looking ahead, she is actively developing new scripts and remains determined to create, even considering projects that may not be classified as Georgian films due to funding constraints.

Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com