Summary of “Underground” by Emir Kusturica
One-line summary:
“Underground” is a darkly comedic and surreal film directed by Emir Kusturica, exploring the complex relationships and political turmoil in Yugoslavia through the lives of two friends.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Emir Kusturica
- Writers: Dušan Kovačević, Emir Kusturica
- Key Actors: Miki Manojlović (Marko Dren), Lazar Ristovski (Petar Popara), Mirjana Joković (Natalija Zovkov), Slavko Štimac (Bata Živojinović)
- Music Director: Goran Bregović
- Director of Photography: Vilko Filač
- Producers: Karl Baumgartner, Maksa Ćatović, Pierre Spengler
Plot:
“Underground” follows the lives of two friends, Marko Dren and Petar Popara, during the tumultuous years of World War II and the subsequent Yugoslav Wars. Marko, a charismatic and opportunistic black marketeer, leads a group of partisans who manufacture weapons in a cellar beneath Belgrade. He convinces his friend Petar that the war is still ongoing, keeping him and a group of loyal followers underground for over 20 years.
As the war ends, Marko manipulates his comrades into believing that the outside world is still dangerous, exploiting their loyalty for personal gain. Meanwhile, Marko’s wife, Natalija, falls in love with Petar, leading to a complicated love triangle. The film explores the absurdity of their situation, blending dark humor with surreal imagery.
Themes and Motifs:
“Underground” delves into themes of betrayal, manipulation, and the destructive nature of war. It examines the consequences of political ideologies and the impact they have on personal relationships. The film also explores the idea of truth and illusion, as the characters are trapped in a fabricated reality created by Marko. Kusturica uses symbolism and allegory to highlight the absurdity and chaos of war, presenting it as a never-ending cycle of violence and deception.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release in 1995, “Underground” received critical acclaim and won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It was praised for its bold storytelling, dark humor, and powerful performances. The film’s surreal and satirical approach to war resonated with audiences, highlighting the absurdity of political conflicts. “Underground” has since become a cult classic and is considered one of Kusturica’s most significant works.
Recommendation:
“Underground” is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on war and its impact on individuals. It combines dark comedy with political commentary, creating a surreal and captivating cinematic experience. However, due to its complex narrative and heavy themes, it may not be suitable for all viewers. Those who appreciate unconventional storytelling and are interested in exploring the human condition amidst political turmoil will find “Underground” to be a compelling and rewarding watch.
Memorable Quote:
“Life is a carnival, believe it or not.” – Marko Dren
