Mirjana Karanovic’s ‘Mother Mara’ Debuts Trailer Ahead of Premiere at Sarajevo Film Festival, Antipode Handles Sales (EXCLUSIVE)

As a passionate movie lover who has had the privilege of experiencing a diverse range of films, I am always on the lookout for stories that resonate deeply and challenge my emotions. The trailer for “Mother Mara” instantly piqued my interest, not only because of its intriguing plot but also due to the impressive background of its director, Mirjana Karanovic.


At the premier league screening of “Mother Mara” during the Sarajevo Film Festival, outside the competitive category, a sneak peek of the movie was unveiled in the form of a trailer (as shown below). The rights to sell this intriguing production are being managed by Antipode Sales International.

Mirjana Karanovic, a versatile Serbian artist, takes center stage both in front of and behind the camera for this drama. Previously, she shone in the Sundance Film Festival entry “A Good Wife” where she also donned the director’s hat. As an actor, her most notable roles include those in Jasmila Zbanic’s Berlin Golden Bear-winning film “Grbavica,” and Emir Kusturica’s Oscar-nominated and Cannes Palme d’Or winning production “When Father Was Away on Business.”

In this heart-wrenching film, the story revolves around Mara, a prosperous businesswoman and devoted mother, who is left devastated following the unexpected demise of her son Nemanja. Overwhelmed by grief, she withdraws from the world, isolating herself from loved ones. Yet, an unexpected encounter with Milan, Nemanja’s cherished friend, offers her a sanctuary in their bond. As they develop a deep connection, they gradually unearth the intricacies of Nemanja’s life and his untimely passing. This journey allows Mara to confront her feelings and begin healing.

In an expression of his feelings, Karanovic shared: “I aim to illustrate the internal duality that resides within me, as if two distinct individuals inhabit my body. I’m frequently embarrassed and apprehensive to discuss this aspect of myself. Society may view it as inappropriate for a woman of my age to openly express her passions and desires, a privilege typically granted to the younger generation.”

“I’m driven to create this film because when a woman reaches a certain age, society labels her as an old crone or witch if she defies traditional expectations. I aim to challenge these perceptions and inspire women, and anyone else feeling stifled by societal roles, to embrace their inner spirit and resist conformity.”

I’m thrilled to share that apart from Karanovic, this film boasts an impressive ensemble of talented actors. Among them are Vucic Perovic, Boris Isakovic, Jasna Zalica, Alen Liveric, Pavle Cemerikic, and Jelena Curuvija. Each one brings unique depth to their roles, making for a captivating cinematic experience.

The producer is Snezana van Houwelingen at This & That Productions in Serbia.

And the co-producers are: Andrea Staka, Thomas Imbach, Adrien Chef, Paul Thiltges, Vlado Bulajic, Lija Pogacnik, Damir Ibrahimovic, Jasmila Zbanic, and Nemanja Becanovic.

Oko Film from Switzerland, Paul Thiltges Distributions based in Luxembourg, December in Slovenia, Deblokada in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and VHS Doo in Montenegro are the production companies collaborating on this project.

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2024-07-25 16:47