The documentary short “Kukeri” explores a centuries-old tradition and the notion of survival, not just for individuals but for generations. Watch here.
The Kukeri custom extends back centuries, so far into the past that its origins are obscure.
“Kukeri” ’s opening shots are as breathtaking as they are strange. In an office space, hulking figures with tall, cylindrical heads stand motionless, almost brushing against the ceiling. They are covered all over with hair that seems too long to be called fur, and they look as if they’re waiting—for what, we’re not sure. In the shots that follow, we see more of these beings: gathered in a structure that resembles a spaceship made of stone; standing in the snow, staring back at us.
The film’s director, Killian Lassablière, told me in an e-mail that he wanted to re-create “that enigmatic and otherworldly feeling I got when I first discovered the tradition.” He’d stumbled on it one day while looking through a series, titled,” by the French photographer Charles Fréger.
Throughout the film, there’s a determined focus on the concept of legacy. “If you do not believe in something,” one of the interviewees says, in voice-over, “it cannot exist.” Traditions survive by being transmitted from generation to generation, like genes. Contained in this idea of passing things on is the concept that one can outlive oneself—of life not as finite but as part of a continuum.
In some ways, it seems miraculous that the custom has survived as long as it has, through the Ottoman occupation of Bulgaria, and, later, forced-labor camps under Communist rule. “Many new regimes have tried to stamp out the practice,” the onscreen text reads, near the end of the film. Perhaps that’s why such a large focus in the documentary is survival, not just for individuals but for generations—the question of how long a group of people can retain what makes them, them.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
How to Prevent Shin Splints From Ruining Your RunsPlay the proactive game to ward off pain.
Read more »
Slumping Taylor Ward gets Angels started with 3-run homerWard was dropped from the leadoff spot because he struggled for most of April, but his first-inning home run gave Patrick Sandoval a four-run lead before he even threw a pitch in a 5-1 win.
Read more »
'Dancing Queens on the Road' releases individual posters for each member | allkpopFive divas of 'Dancing Queens on the Road' have released individual posters full of personality.tvN's 'Dancing Queens on the Road' inte…
Read more »
Dancing With the Stars Foxtrots Back to ABCIn an unexpected move, Disney+ will now share the competition series.
Read more »
‘Dancing With the Stars’ Back on ABC After One Season at Disney+The competition will return to its long-time home while also streaming live.
Read more »
‘Dancing With The Stars’ Shocker: Popular Show Is Moving Back To ABC From Disney+Do we have Bob Iger to thank for this? Dana Walden? Whoever made the decision, the fringe fans thank you: Dancing with the Stars is moving back to ABC, Deadline has learned. It aired for one season…
Read more »