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Hana Jušić Debuts 'God Will Not Help' Trailer Amid Croatia's Patriarchal Resurgence

WHAT'S THE STORY?

What's Happening?

Hana Jušić, a Croatian director, has released the trailer for her second feature film, 'God Will Not Help,' ahead of its premiere at the Locarno Film Festival. The film is set in the early 20th century and follows Teresa, a headstrong woman from Chile, who disrupts the peace of a family of shepherds in Croatia. Teresa's presence challenges the patriarchal norms of the isolated community, leading some to label her a witch. Jušić highlights the troubling resurgence of traditional values in Croatia, where groups of men engage in rituals that aim to control and morally police women. The film seeks to reclaim the figure of the witch as a symbol of female defiance against attempts to domesticate women's bodies and desires.
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Why It's Important?

The release of 'God Will Not Help' comes at a time when Croatia is experiencing a revival of patriarchal values, which Jušić describes as disturbing. The film's portrayal of Teresa as a defiant figure challenges these societal norms and offers a narrative that resonates with contemporary issues of gender equality and women's rights. By reclaiming the figure of the witch, Jušić aims to empower women and highlight the importance of resisting societal structures that seek to control them. This film could spark discussions on gender roles and the impact of traditional values on women's autonomy, potentially influencing public policy and societal attitudes in Croatia and beyond.

What's Next?

Following its premiere at the Locarno Film Festival, 'God Will Not Help' is expected to attract attention from international audiences and critics. The film's themes may lead to broader discussions on gender equality and the role of women in society, particularly in regions experiencing a resurgence of patriarchal values. Stakeholders such as women's rights organizations and cultural commentators may engage with the film to address these issues. Jušić's work could inspire other filmmakers to explore similar themes, contributing to a larger movement within the film industry to challenge traditional gender norms.

Beyond the Headlines

The film's exploration of patriarchal values and the figure of the witch touches on deeper cultural and historical dimensions. By setting the story in the early 20th century, Jušić draws parallels between past and present societal structures, highlighting the persistence of gender inequality. The film's narrative may encourage viewers to reflect on the historical context of women's rights and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Additionally, Jušić's approach to storytelling, which avoids oversimplification, offers a nuanced portrayal of female characters, emphasizing the complexity of real-life experiences.

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