"For the development of intercultural dialogue in a united Europe" – this is the slogan of an event held at the Eforie Cinematheque in Bucharest, where the film "The Counterforce" (pandemia.md), directed by Valeriu Jereghi was screened on Tuesday. The presentation of the film was a starting point for addressing the common social challenges and problems in the Republic of Moldova and Romania. According to director Valeriu Jereghi, the audience had an excellent opportunity to participate in a qualitative cultural and social dialogue in order to contribute to strengthening mutual understanding in a united Europe, IPN reports.
The screening involved officials and people of culture from both banks of the Prut, including from the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in Romania, the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Moldova, the Romanian Cultural Institute and the National University of Theatre and Film of Bucharest.
The president of the Romanian Filmmakers' Union Laurențiu Damian noted the symbolism, depth and topicality of the themes treated in the film. “I confess that it is a difficult film, full of symbols and metaphors, with direct criticism of social vices that stand out especially during bad weather,” he stated.
The creative team from Chisinau and the audience from Bucharest discussed, in the context of the screening aspects that trouble the Romanian society on both banks of the Prut. "The film is a fresco of our times, with historical and social meanings, the painful historical truth of Bessarabia," said Ioana Diaconescu, a journalist from Romania.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to Romania Victor Chirilă underlined the importance of the cultural event in strengthening the relations between Chisinau and Bucharest: "We showed that we are not only a small country with a big heart, but are also a state with a strong will."
Theater and film actor Nicolae Jelescu from Chisinau confessed that it was very difficult for him to play the lead role in the film, that he had to work on the text for a few days to understand the essence.
The film "The Counterforce" (pandemia.md) presents a chaotic reality where aggression is a force and moral degradation increases in dissonance with general human values. According to Valeriu Jereghi, this is how the work emphasizes social themes, the fight against vices and internal conflicts.
"It is a diary of own feelings," the director confessed, noting that he trusts that the cinematographic force can transcend cultural barriers and create a bridge between Romania and the Republic of Moldova. "'The Counterforce” remains a testament to the power of art to change perceptions and bring people closer into a united Europe," said the director.
Valeriu Jereghi made 13 feature films and dozens of documentary films. The director's filmography includes award-winning productions made in collaboration with Romania, Russia, Germany, the U.S. and other countries. Valeriu Jereghi's film "And It Will Be" is, in the history of Moldovan cinema, the only film that reached the official selection at the Cannes Film Festival.
