SYNOPSIS

Eva (30) dedicates herself to caring for her mother, who suffers from a psychological disorder and rejects medical help. This consumes her entire time and energy and shatters all her dreams. Seeking escape from the only bond defining her, Eva turns to her sister who lives abroad, and finds comfort in her fantasies during rare moments of solitude. When her mother self-inflicts a severe head injury, Eva glimpses a chance for freedom. Opting to break the chains, she risks regret to pursue a different path.

INTENTION

Growing up in a troubled family environment laid the groundwork for lasting insecurities. My difficult relationship with my mother made me feel trapped in her beliefs, leading to a sense of hopelessness. When I moved out for my studies, I became aware of the normalized behaviors and the lack of institutional support for mental health issues within the family.

Through evocative storytelling and nuanced cinematography, I seek to immerse the audience in Eva's internal struggles, highlighting the universal themes of family obligations, personal sacrifices, and the profound impact of unaddressed mental health issues.

The visual language focuses on capturing inner states of the characters using intimate close-ups and extended static shots. The film's aesthetic reflects post-transitional Balkans through a poverty-stricken apartment filled with worn out elements and a desolated concrete neighborhood, evoking a sense of stagnation.

Chained aims to resonate with audiences, fostering empathy and understanding for those affected by family traumas.