To talk about gender and post-Yugoslav cinema, it is necessary to understand both the state-dictated system and identity issues presented in Yugoslav films. Different conditions influenced the development of national industries, which are also defined by narrative traditions, from which political narrative films are not independent.
Despite formalised equality in Yugoslav society, the role of women in the film industry has traditionally kept them in the margins. After independence and the development of national cinemas, the situation slowly began to change, so in addition to women actors, we came to see more and more female producers, directors and heads of departments. Today, the overall percentage is not close to 50/50, but the perception of filmmaking as a “man’s job” has changed.
A conversation among four female actors from the region will open onto many questions that are being discussed in the film industry today. What kind of films do we make? Are there enough women’s stories? Are there sufficient roles for women? How does exploitation, both in front of and behind the camera, manifest itself in the regional film industry?
Speakers
- Lana Barić, Croatia
- Mirjana Karanović, Serbia
- Labina Mitevska, Macedonia
Moderator
- Vedrana Božinović, Bosnia and Herzegovina