The Load

During the NATO bombing of Serbia in 1999, a truck driver named Vlada undertakes a journey across a country in chaos. Tasked with transporting a mysterious cargo from Kosovo to Belgrade, he grapples with the moral implications of his mission and the pervasive atmosphere of war. Along the way, he encounters various people, forcing him to confront his own past and the broader conflict engulfing the region.

The Load received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its understated approach to the subject matter and Goran Bogdan's compelling performance. The film was noted for its atmospheric tension and its focus on the human cost of conflict, though some found its pacing deliberate.

• A powerful and somber reflection on the human experience during wartime.
• Goran Bogdan delivers a standout performance as a man caught in moral ambiguity.
• The film excels in creating a palpable sense of dread and uncertainty.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's realistic portrayal of the impact of war on ordinary people and the strong emotional core provided by the lead actor. Many appreciated its thought-provoking narrative and its ability to evoke empathy.

Screened at the Venice Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival.

Director Ognjen Glavonić drew inspiration for the film from real events and personal accounts of the NATO bombing campaign, aiming to depict the difficult experiences of those living through the conflict.