Standfotografie am Filmset der serbisch- amerikanischen Serienproduktion Kaljave Gume starring Chris Mulkey, Gorica Popović
Ich hatte die Gelegenheit an einem Film-Set der serbisch-amerikanischen Serie „Kaljave gume- Mud on the tires“ zu fotografieren. Vielen Dank an die Co-Regisseurin Ivana Stevens für die Vermittlung. Die Serie spielt in Belgrad und irgendwo in Louisiana. „Irgendwo in Louisiana“ war ein Set an der Donau nahe dem Dorf Ivanovo. Ein gemütlicher Ort. Die Donau ist hier weit und die Dorfbewohner überwiegend Fischer. Miodrag Certic, der Regisseur, der in den USA lebt, hatte von seinem eigens mitgebrachten Setdesign-Team eine Lousiana-Kulisse gestalten lassen. Vollkommen gelungen, wie ich finde. Es stimmte alles. Das feeling war very american, es war brütend heiss und es gab gefühlte Millionen von Mücken.
„Kaljave Gume (Mud on the Tires): A Cross-Cultural Exploration of Aging and Identity“
Kaljave Gume (translated as Mud on the Tires) is a 2021 Serbian-American television miniseries that delves into the complexities of aging, cultural displacement, and personal reinvention. Directed by Miodrag Ćertić and Raško Milatović, the series offers a poignant narrative that resonates across generations and geographies.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Vesna, a 60-year-old former pianist from Belgrade, portrayed by Gorica Popović. Following the death of her husband, Vesna travels to California to stay with her son, a successful software engineer, and his wife, a public prosecutor. As she navigates this new environment, Vesna confronts the challenges of adapting to a different culture and redefines her identity beyond traditional societal expectations.
Themes and Cultural Significance
Kaljave Gume explores themes of ageism, cultural assimilation, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment later in life. An anthropological analysis highlights how the series addresses the societal norms surrounding aging, particularly the expectations placed on widowed women in Serbian culture. Vesna’s journey challenges these norms, illustrating the tension between traditional values and the desire for autonomy and new experiences in one’s later years.
Cast and Performances
The series features a diverse cast, including American actors Chris Mulkey and Aida Turturro, who bring authenticity to the cross-cultural dynamics portrayed. Their performances, alongside Popović’s compelling portrayal of Vesna, enrich the narrative with depth and relatability.
Reception and Impact
Premiering on Radio Television of Serbia (RTS) in February 2021, Kaljave Gume received acclaim for its insightful storytelling and nuanced character development. The series has been noted for its contribution to discussions on aging and cultural identity, offering viewers a reflective look at the possibilities of personal growth beyond conventional life stages.
Conclusion
Kaljave Gume stands as a significant work that bridges Serbian and American cultural narratives, providing a heartfelt exploration of life’s transitions. Through Vesna’s story, the series invites audiences to consider the universal themes of change, resilience, and the enduring quest for self-discovery.
For a visual glimpse into the series, you can watch the trailer here: