Backdrop preview Black Marija backdrop
Black Marija

Black Marija (1986)

Jun 25, 1986 1h 35m Drama

After the death of their sponsor, rock band Zenit falls into a crisis. They need to make new arrangements of old songs in only 6 days. There comes to disagreement between band members because of different opinions.

Directed by Milan Živković

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Milan Živković
Writer
  • Milan Živković

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Black Marija examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Milan Živković brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1986, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Black Marija took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 155 minutes long.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The musical score contains over 37 unique compositions.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1986, when this film was released:
  • Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Black Marija shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Rose, which focuses more on action than character development, Black Marija subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Local Band and Saturn Return explore similar territory, Black Marija stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 25, 1986
  • Runtime: 1h 35m

Similar Movies