Kosara Mitic’s feature film debut, titled 17, will premiere on February 18, 2024, as part of the Perspectives program at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film dives deep into the complexities of adolescence, focusing on themes of trauma and unspoken female solidarity. The protagonist, Sara, navigates the challenges of being seventeen while harboring a dangerous secret during a school trip that escalates dramatically when she witnesses her friend Lina being sexually assaulted.
The film’s synopsis emphasizes the critical bond formed between the two girls as they strive to break free from a cycle of violence. “This seals an everlasting bond between them,” it states, hinting at the emotional depth that drives the narrative. The cast features Eva Kostic and Martina Danilovska, alongside Dame Joveski, Eva Stojchevska, and Petar Manic. With cinematography by Naum Doksevski and editing by Vladimir Pavlovski, the film has been produced by Black Cat Production in collaboration with Art&Popcorn and December, with world sales managed by Totem Films.
Exploring the Silence of Trauma
In an exclusive interview, Mitic shared her insights on the film’s conception. She explains that the story began not with a plot, but with a question about adolescence as a critical juncture in life. “I was thinking about adolescence as a breaking point – that age where you are still forming your sense of self, and yet you are suddenly confronted with situations that demand adult emotional responsibility,” she noted.
Mitic’s intention was not to sensationalize the traumatic events but to portray the silence that often follows such incidents. She emphasizes that 17 is not merely about the event itself but about the emotional burden that young people carry when they do not fully understand their experiences. “Life, especially at that age, is confusing and emotionally fragmented – I wanted the film to reflect that,” she added.
The director also highlighted her preference for a realistic and visceral storytelling approach. She sought to create a sense of intimacy, allowing viewers to experience events alongside the characters rather than being distanced by a conventional narrative style. “Realism comes from restraint,” Mitic said, explaining her choice to avoid overt dramatic cues, trusting the audience to interpret the emotional landscape of the film.
Female Solidarity Amidst Chaos
Mitic places significant importance on showcasing female friendship and solidarity within the film. “At 17, friendship is often the most profound relationship in your life,” she stated. The director aims to portray female solidarity in a more nuanced light, moving beyond the typical depictions of rivalry or idealized closeness.
She expresses a desire to present a quieter form of solidarity, one that exists in shared silence and mutual understanding. “Standing next to someone. Sharing silence. Recognizing yourself in another person’s fear,” she explained, emphasizing that this bond serves as a form of resilience in the face of adversity.
The casting process for 17 prioritized authenticity, as Mitic sought young actors who could embody their characters’ complexities. “I wasn’t looking for actors performing youths – I was looking for young people who carry their own contradictions,” she said. This approach allowed her to create a genuine environment where the actors could exist authentically in front of the camera.
Looking to the future, Mitic revealed that her next feature will delve into the emotional violence of silence against women. “I’m developing it carefully with Ognjen Svilicic, aiming to give the story honesty, depth and respect without exploiting trauma,” she noted, indicating her commitment to addressing sensitive subjects with care and integrity.
With its world premiere approaching, 17 promises to be a poignant exploration of the challenges faced by young women, the weight of trauma, and the power of unspoken solidarity.
