Sandra Wollner Brings 'Everytime' to Sarajevo: A Journey Through Grief and History

Austrian filmmaker Sandra Wollner is making waves with her latest feature film, 'Everytime,' which recently premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival. Now, she is bringing her poignant narrative to the Sarajevo Film Festival, where it is competing for awards.

Wollner's film, featuring a mother, her young daughter, and a teenage boy, explores their emotional journey following the devastating loss of their eldest daughter. The film intertwines themes of grief, memory, and surrealism, effectively bending the lines of time and reality. Critics have praised Wollner for her unique ability to infuse genuine unease into everyday situations, capturing the audience’s attention through a complex emotional landscape.

Reflecting on her Cannes experience, Wollner described it as overwhelming, stating, "To get this platform and such a big audience — overwhelming in a good way." The emotional responses from the audience during the screening were particularly impactful for her. "Seeing your film resonate with an audience is miraculous," she noted, emphasizing the emotional weight of the collective experience.

As she navigates the festival circuit, Wollner conveys her appreciation for being included in Sarajevo, a festival deeply rooted in history. Founded during the siege of 1995, she acknowledges the significance of its origins. "You can still feel something of that history here," she remarked, noting how the local audience’s perception of trauma and loss differs from her experiences in Germany and Austria. During a recent interview, questions about whether 'Everytime' serves as a memorial for the lost resonated with her, highlighting the unique connections the film has forged with the Sarajevo audience.

In discussing the importance of mid-tier festivals, Wollner emphasized how they open doors for filmmakers like her. "Every festival provides an opportunity for others to see your work, potentially leading to meaningful connections down the road." She appreciates the conversations sparked by her film, particularly during the Q&A sessions with local audiences, where many shared personal stories of grief.

Wollner's exploration of grief and memory is a recurring theme in her work. "Everyone can relate to the experience of loss, whether through the lens of family or friends," she explained, acknowledging the deep emotional connections audiences form with such narratives. The feedback she has received at various festivals indicates a common thread of understanding and empathy surrounding these themes.

Looking ahead, Wollner is considering new narrative directions. While she intends to continue exploring memory and imagination, she is also intrigued by a project set in prehistoric times, centered on the origins of ghosts. However, she remains cautious about over-reflecting in her storytelling.

As for future collaborations, Wollner believes the project's nature should dictate partnerships rather than star power. "I would never pursue someone simply for their name; it’s about understanding the project’s needs," she remarked, illustrating her commitment to authentic storytelling.

Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com