“The Antique (Antikvariati),” interview with Director Rusudan Glurjidze and Producer Marie-Pierre Marciá

In a compelling interview, Rusudan Glurjidze, the director of “Antikvariati” (The Antique) in Giornate degli Autori section, and Marie-Pierre Maciá, the film’s producer, share their insights into the inspiration and creation of a film that intimately relates to the hopes and aspirations of migrants. Rusudan Glurjidze explains that the inspiration stems from her own experiences, as well as those of her fellow Georgians during tumultuous times. Through this film, Glurjidze aims to shed light on the harsh realities faced by migrants and the exceptional resilience they exhibit in confronting adversity.

Throughout the conversation, Glurjidze emphasizes the critical influence of the political climate, particularly the fraught relationship between Georgia and Russia, on the narrative of “Antikvariati” (The Antique). She poignantly notes that the politically motivated mass expulsions of Georgians were not random events but actions with dire consequences for countless lives. Glurjidze seeks to highlight how these political decisions undermine human dignity, illustrating the film’s focus on the impact that politics can have on the everyday lives of individuals.

Set in contemporary St. Petersburg amidst illegal mass expulsions, the historical context informs the emotional and narrative depth of the story. Glurjidze articulates how this backdrop shapes the characters’ motivations and struggles, as they embody the real-life experiences of those who suffered through these events. Their journeys reflect a pursuit of hope and a better life, drawing authenticity from the director’s personal connection to these experiences. The personal connection to the deportations deeply influences Glurjidze‘s filmmaking approach. She describes filmmaking as a means of processing her trauma and that of her compatriots. For her, it is essential to tell these stories to ensure that these experiences are recognized and understood by a broader audience.

“Antikvariati” serves not just as a narrative but as a form of catharsis and remembrance. Marie-Pierre Maciá adds that the film is also a response to contemporary challenges regarding migration and human rights. She emphasizes the importance of bringing such stories to the screen, not only to bear witness to past injustices but also to spark conversation and awareness about the current plight of migrants worldwide. Another significant theme discussed is the distinction between migration as a choice versus migration as a necessity. Glurjidze emphasizes that conveying this difference is essential to reflect the complex realities of migration. While some may migrate in pursuit of better opportunities, others face a desperate escape from persecution and violence. By portraying these divergent experiences, she hopes to foster empathy and a deeper understanding among viewers regarding the multitude of reasons individuals migrate. As for the film’s broader appeal, Glurjidze and Maciá express their hope that “Antikvariati” resonates with audiences unfamiliar with the specific geopolitical tensions between Georgia and Russia.

By focusing on universal themes of displacement, hope, and the longing for belonging, they believe viewers from any background can find relatable and relevant aspects of the story, regardless of their prior knowledge of the geopolitical context. Glurjidze also reflects on the delicate balance of intertwining personal and political narratives. She acknowledges that grounding the political narrative in personal stories is critical to engage audiences on an emotional level, making abstract political issues more relatable through real experiences. The personal connection serves to humanize these topics, facilitating a deeper audience understanding of the challenges faced by migrants.

Looking forward, Glurjidze and Maciá articulate their hopes for viewers to leave “Antikvariati” with a heightened awareness of the complexities surrounding migration. They intend for audiences to see and appreciate the human stories behind statistics, fostering compassion for migrant experiences and an urgent desire for social justice. In discussing the contribution of their film to the ongoing conversation about migration and human rights, Glurjidze and Maciá envision “Antikvariati” as a conversation starter regarding the human rights challenges migrants face today. By foregrounding these narratives, they aim to inspire dialogue and advocacy that can facilitate meaningful change in societal perceptions of migration. Finally, Glurjidze conveys a powerful message about the impact of political decisions on individual lives through “Antikvariati.” She stresses the film’s intention to highlight how political actions produce real, often devastating consequences for ordinary individuals. In her closing remarks, Glurjidze hopes to leave audiences with the reminder that humanity must take precedence over political agendas and that every deportation and act of exclusion carries profound implications for human lives.

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