Aferim!

In the Wallachian countryside of 1835, a nobleman's constable, Costandin, and his son, Ionita, embark on a quest to capture a runaway slave. Their journey through the wild, lawless landscape becomes a series of encounters that reveal the brutal realities and prejudices of the time. As they pursue their quarry, they grapple with their own moral compasses and the complex social fabric of Ottoman-ruled Romania.

Aferim! was critically acclaimed for its bold, black-and-white cinematography, its unflinching depiction of historical brutality, and its darkly comedic tone. Reviewers praised director Radu Jude for his ambitious scope and his ability to blend historical accuracy with sharp social commentary. While some found its length and starkness challenging, the film was widely regarded as a significant and thought-provoking work of Romanian cinema.

• Praised for its stunning black-and-white visuals and atmospheric portrayal of historical Romania.

• Applauded for its challenging exploration of prejudice, power, and morality.

• Noted for its dark humor and provocative historical examination.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's unique historical setting and its provocative themes, finding it visually striking and intellectually engaging, though some noted its slow pace and harsh subject matter.

Won the Silver Bear for Outstanding Artistic Contribution at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival.

The film's title, 'Aferim!', is a Turkish exclamation roughly translating to 'Well done!' or 'Bravo!', reflecting the Ottoman influence on the region during the period depicted.