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Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair

Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair (2021)

Aug 13, 2021 1h 30m Comedy Drama

Set in Sarajevo in May 2021, the city's famous Old Town tries to recover after a difficult pandemic year. When a visitor from Zagreb comes looking for the best kebabs in town, a harmless gesture causes the disintegration of the business and private lives of several people.

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Directed by Danis Tanović

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Danis Tanović
Writer
  • Nikola Kuprešanin
  • Danis Tanović
Producer
  • Amra Bakšić Čamo
  • Mirsad Purivatra
  • Jovan Marjanović
  • Cemil Yavuz
  • Faruk Güven
  • İbrahim Eren

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Danis Tanović 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 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1145 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Oldboy, which focuses more on action than character development, Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Wing or the Thigh? and Never Better explore similar territory, Not So Friendly Neighborhood Affair stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: August 13, 2021
  • Runtime: 1h 30m

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