“21 Days Until the End of The World”, interview with Director Teona Strugar Mitevska

In an intimate conversation with Fred Film Radio, Teona Strugar Mitevska, the acclaimed director of “God Exists, Her Name Is Petrunya,” delves into her latest project, “21 Days Until the End of The World“, in the section Giornate degli Autori. This documentary, presented as a special event at the Venice Film Festival’s Giornate degli Autori, captures Mitevska’s journey during the pandemic, offering a unique and challenging cinematic experience.

Mitevska doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the demanding nature of her film, emphasizing the importance of not underestimating the audience’s intelligence. She believes in engaging viewers in a narrative that pushes boundaries, sometimes even unsettling them. For her, it’s not about pandering to expectations but about challenging the audience to evolve, take risks, and embrace courageous storytelling.

21 Days

The title itself, “21 Days Until the End of The World,” reflects the 21 days of solitude, confusion, introspection, and, at times, sheer boredom that Mitevska experienced during lockdown. While acknowledging the film’s demanding nature, she finds it crucial to engage viewers actively, even if it means discomfort at times. Mitevska sees it as her duty as an artist and filmmaker to create thought-provoking cinema that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling.

The pandemic and lockdown, which brought death and uncertainty to the forefront of everyone’s minds, profoundly influenced Mitevska’s work. It made her realize the importance of not squandering time and the necessity of continuous creation and courage. The pandemic, in her view, stripped away the non-essential and propelled her forward with newfound determination.

Un unconventional use of language and framing

“21 Days Until the End of The World” challenges cinematic conventions with its unconventional use of language and framing. Mitevska intentionally plays with aesthetics, often choosing to frame beauty in unexpected ways—cutting off heads, focusing on hands, and emphasizing the essence of each moment. She considers this personal freedom to create as the essence of her artistry.

Through this personal and audacious film, Mitevska hopes to inspire courage in her audience. As a woman from the Balkans, an artist, and a director, she has often navigated the challenges of waiting for acceptance, recognition, funding, and visibility. Her self-portrait during the pandemic celebrates the courage to be unapologetically free and true to oneself, challenging conventions and norms.

“21 Days Until the End of The World” also serves as a reminder of humility in the face of nature’s relentless march. The film captures the beauty, power, harshness, and cruelty of the natural world, reminding us of our insignificance in the grand scheme of things.

Mitevska’s presence in a festival showcasing numerous films by female directors reflects the progress made in the film industry. Festivals and programmers bear significant responsibility in creating spaces for these voices to emerge and be heard, gradually altering the course of history.

Celebrate the courage to be free

Teona Strugar Mitevska’s journey during the pandemic, as depicted in “21 Days Until the End of The World,” encapsulates her unwavering commitment to brave, challenging storytelling and a celebration of the courage to be free. It is a reminder that there are no rules in art, as long as you have something to say, the rest will follow.

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