Movie spotlight
The Euphoria of Being
Alone, Eva Fahidi returned home to Hungary after WWII. At 20 years of age, she had survived Auschwitz Birkenau, while 49 members of her family were murdered, including her mother, father, and little sister. Today, at age 90, Eva is asked to participate in a dance theatre performance about her life's journey. This would be her first experience performing on a stage. Reka, the director, imagines a duet between Eva and a young, internationally acclaimed dancer, Emese. Reka wants to see these two women, young and old, interact on stage, to see how their bodies, and stories, can intertwine. Eva agrees immediately. Three women - three months - a story of crossing boundaries. Whilst the extraordinary moments of Eva's life are distilled into theater scenes, a truly wonderful and powerful relationship forms among the three women.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during the final days of World War II, this film follows a young Norwegian woman named Janne who is desperately trying to protect her younger brother from the harsh realities of the occupation and the impending Soviet invasion. As the conflict escalates, Janne must make difficult choices to ensure their survival, navigating a landscape of fear, uncertainty, and the struggle for humanity amidst chaos.
Critical Reception
"The Euphoria of Being" garnered significant critical attention for its powerful portrayal of civilian resilience during wartime. Reviewers lauded its emotional depth and the compelling performances, particularly from the lead actress, highlighting its sensitive approach to a difficult historical period. While some noted its slow-burn pacing, the overall consensus celebrated its poignant storytelling and historical significance.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotionally resonant storytelling and strong performances.
Commended for its sensitive and humanistic depiction of war's impact on civilians.
Noted for its atmospheric direction and effective portrayal of historical tension.
Google audience: Audience reviews were not readily available or aggregated for "The Euphoria of Being" on public platforms.
Fun Fact
The film is set in Finnmark, Norway, a region that endured extensive destruction during World War II and was later rebuilt, adding a layer of historical authenticity to the narrative.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources