Movie spotlight
Variola Vera
An Albanian pilgrim, infected with an unknown disease, is on his way back to Belgrade from the Middle East. When doctors realize that it is a disease that has been considered eradicated, it is already too late - variola vera begins to languish and the hospital is quarantined.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1970s Yugoslavia, a deadly smallpox epidemic breaks out in Belgrade. The film follows the frantic efforts of doctors and nurses to contain the virus and save lives amidst public panic and fear. It highlights the personal sacrifices and ethical dilemmas faced by medical professionals in the face of a devastating public health crisis.
Critical Reception
Variola Vera is a critically acclaimed Serbian film, often praised for its realistic portrayal of a pandemic and its tense, suspenseful atmosphere. It is considered a significant work in Yugoslav cinema for its handling of a sensitive and dramatic subject matter, earning it a reputation as a powerful and disturbing thriller.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its chillingly realistic depiction of a smallpox outbreak.
Commended for its suspenseful narrative and effective portrayal of medical professionals' struggles.
Noted for its historical context and its ability to evoke a sense of dread and urgency.
Google audience: While specific Google user reviews are not readily available for this film, audience reactions generally reflect appreciation for its intense storytelling and historical relevance. Viewers often find it to be a gripping and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Awards & Accolades
Best Film at the Festroia International Film Festival (1982), Best Actress for Radmila Živković at the Pula Film Festival (1982).
Fun Fact
The film is based on the real smallpox epidemic that occurred in Yugoslavia in 1972, which was the last major outbreak of the disease in Europe.
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