April | Movie Review
Exploring the Depths of Humanity in **April**
Written and directed by Georgian visionary **Déa Kulumbegashvili**, April delves into the complex life of **Nina**, an obstetrician portrayed by **Ia Sukhitashvili**, who navigates the stormy seas of her profession in rural Georgia. While **Nina does her part in delivering life** each day, her nights unfold into a perilous journey, as she clandestinely assists patients seeking **abortions**. The precarious nature of her work looms large over her existence, particularly when the threat of investigation into her actions hangs over her like a dark cloud.
An Immersive Experience Like No Other
April is certainly **not for the faint of heart**. It offers an **intimate and all-consuming experience**, presenting most of the narrative through **Nina’s eyes**. The film amplifies the tension with every breath Nina takes, weaving her vulnerabilities into the fabric of an unforgiving environment. The narrative features long, static frames that hold viewers captive in moments of haunting beauty, juxtaposed with gripping tension, **forcing us to feel every heart-wrenching second**.
The Duality of Isolation and Solace
Long stretches of discomfort punctuated by fleeting glimpses of serenity – these are the hallmarks of April. Nina’s world is often bleak, yet brief escapes into **breathtaking fields of flowers** provide visual relief from the **oppressive societal norms** that surround her. The cinematography oscillates between unyielding despair and delicate beauty, creating a **jarring yet hypnotic viewing experience**.
Mysterious Layers of Nina’s Character
Nina’s character carries a weight of sadness, enhanced by elements that fuel a sense of mystery. Her **sexual dysfunction** and self-esteem issues are intriguing yet elusive, prompting viewers to piece together her troubled psyche. The unsettling presence of a **human fetus** serves as a nightmarish metaphor, heightening the film’s emotional stakes and further complicating our understanding of Nina’s internal struggles.
Artistry Meets Abstraction
April brilliantly illustrates the **misogynistic undercurrents** of Nina’s community without falling into the trap of being an overtly political film. It relies on the harsh societal perceptions surrounding women’s rights to propel its narrative, positioning Nina’s plight as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Although the film achieved remarkable acclaim at its **world premiere at the 81st Venice International Film Festival**, winning the **Special Jury Prize**, it may struggle to resonate with wider audiences unfamiliar with its challenging themes.
A Final Reflection
In essence, April is a strikingly crafted film that unflinchingly explores themes of **womanhood** and **reproductive rights** while simultaneously serving as a character study of a woman tormented by her circumstances. While its artistic merit is undeniable, those unaccustomed to its **non-linear narrative style** may find themselves adrift in its abstract waters.
Guy Lambert
April is set to be released in select cinemas on **25th April 2025**.
Watch a clip from April here:
