Gott existiert, ihr Name ist Petrunya

In the Orthodox religion, the feast of Epiphany is celebrated with a race to the holy cross that a priest launches into a river. The men jump into the icy water to catch the cross, which is supposed to bring good fortune for the whole year to the winner. Thus, in Macedonia, in a village eternally cemented in the darkness of the middle ages, an almost insignificant event is going to take on excessive proportions when a woman participates to this religious ceremony ... and wins. For native males, it's an outrageous theft. For a female journalist, it's a courageous act of social rebellion and feminine emancipation. The event taking on an enormous scale, the local police must intervene. This is the beginning of a downward spiral based on conformity, tradition, archaism, distressing methods of intimidation as well as ridiculous guilt-inducing monologues. As depressing as it may seem, this movie is based on an excellent quartet 'cast + photography + script + dialog'. A delightful surprise from Macedonia.

It can be discovered from different angles. As a religious film, as manifesto about women rights in Balkans, as support for reflection about social rules, love and mankind, about machism and about Church. But, for me it has two basic virtues - it is a well crafted film -Zorica Nusheva makes a magnificent role -, and its message in profound Christian. A great film about a woman, a cross, a priest, a reporter and a gift to a policeman.

Undeveloped story with some good dialogue scenes where Zorica Nushewas character comes alive for a few seconds. Feels like a short film being blown out of proportion. Little character development with a predictable plot and some unbelievable characters. Probably must do for Macedonia. Not a must see for everyone.

A film which shall magnetize you through excellent acting, with an unusual camerawork, with symbolic sets. An East-European story, in a sorrowful environment, but through forgiveness, love and humanity prevails. In a very elegant (non-didactic) way. Best film for me recently.

This movie is very powerful because it is very powerful, and there is basically no weakness from script to photography to performance. The movie sparkles from the moment Peñia jumps into the water, making the eyes not want to leave for a second. The dialogue is full of humor, and several transitions from the camera lens to the reality are also very interesting.