The Romanian Cultural Institute in London (RCI) and British Film Institute (BFI) proudly announce the opening of 'Revolution in Realism: The New Romanian Cinema' – the biggest showcase of Romanian cinema ever to have taken place in Britain.
Since 'The Death of Mr Lăzărescu' created a buzz at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival, followed two years later by '4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days' winning the Palme d’or, Romanian cinema has really made a mark.
Several directors have compiled substantial oeuvres; others are following. Many of their films are notable for a low-key naturalism mixing psychological precision, subtle social commentary and a keen awareness of ethical complexity; meanwhile, suspense and a dark sense of humour bring great variety to the realist aesthetic.
In their many considerable achievements the directors have been helped by major talents like cinematographer Oleg Mutu, writer Răzvan Rădulescu, not to mention a host of fine actors, perhaps most notably Luminit‚a Gheorghiu and Teodor Corban.
This survey merely scratches the surface of an exciting cinematic phenomenon.
The core of the programme is The New Romanian Cinema season to unfold at BFI Southbank & RCI London between 2-30 June.
See full programme here.
This season is preceded by The Forerunners, a series of special screenings at RCI London's Romanian Cinematheque focusing on the creative antecedents of the New Romanian Cinema - 12, 17, 25 & 31 May.
See full programme here.
The programme continues at the Romanian Cinematheque with Extra Screenings at RCI London on 7, 11 & 14 July.
