Synopsis

Ali, a Moslem from an affluent home, falls desperately in love with Nino, an aristocratic Christian woman. Overwhelmed by his feelings, the Azerbaijani man proposes marriage to her during a visit to her hometown Tbilisi, Georgia. Nino can hardly believe her luck and everything seems perfect. But suddenly World War I breaks out and Ali is called back to Baku by his father, Safar. Unlike his friends, Ali is not willing to go to war, but rather worries about his great love. The situation becomes critical when Nino’s father decides to give his blessings for the marriage, only after the war has ended. The film recounts a classic plot: A couple whose only wish of being happy together threatens to collapse under insurmountable obstacles – not only the dangers of war itself, but also the families’ doubts about the lovers’ seemingly irreconcilable religions and cultures. This ingenious portrayal of Kurban Said’s 1937 novel, directed by Oscar-winner Asif Kapadia, leads audiences into a bygone, forgotten, fascinating and unknown world that couldn’t be more topical.

Guests

Numan Acar

Numan Acar

Actor Ali and Nino

In Vienna: March 20-22