We saw "HERE" at the 2009 Orlando Film Festival. My wife and I were so impressed by the film we stuck around for a prolonged Q+A. Luckily, Producer Frank Calo invited us to an "After" get together/party for the production. All this proved to be quite worthwhile, because it gave us some unique inside-track insights into the production, which are shared with you here.
Serbian Director Darko Lungulov studied the art of film-making in New York. His years in the Big Apple are clearly reflected in his savvy instinct in obtaining precisely the right mix of the where/what/when/how/why of the New York backdrop; his foreigner/outsider perspective adds a fingerprint spin. The passion for his labor of love, which blazed so intensely in his eyes, permeates every frame of this multiple award-winning American/Serbian look at how one man's capricious decision to grab a fistful of cash by traveling to Belgrade and marrying a woman to secure her U. S. Visa, indirectly sets him on a path of redemption and self-rediscovery.
David Thorton (Unhooks the Stars) fleshes out his role as a burned-out sax player with a refreshing degree of studied nonchalance that veils a constant and consistent intensity. Mirjana Karanovic("The Serbian Meryl Streep" we were told) as Olga, is living proof that actions speak louder than words. A mature and kind-spirited woman, who knows just how to nurture all those around her, yet never seeking out someone special to nurture her.
HERE's otherworldly treat is its deliciously enticing, traditionally-rooted Serbian musical score by Dejan Pejovic. It set the tone and mood of the film so perfectly it could be used as an example of music for optimum ambience in Film-making classes! Cyndi Lauper (Who JUST happens to be married to David Thorton BTW!) has a cameo that adds cleverly to the overall production and also contributes an original song!
There is one warm, inspirational and unique aspect of HERE and THERE, but to reveal it would amount to a spoiler. So, you must experience this great film for yourself!
...ENJOY! / DISFRUTELA!