Aferim!

Aferim! is a 2015 Romanian film directed by Radu Jude and featuring Teodor Corban, Mihai Comanoiu, and Toma Cuzin in leading roles. The title bears the Ottoman Turkish origin, meaning 'Bravo!' It is a historical drama that offers a potent commentary on various sociopolitical implications intrinsically woven into Romania's history, while shattering stereotypes and using satirical elements to draw bitter truths.

Set in Eastern Europe in 1835, the narrative revolves around Constable Costandin (Teodor Corban) assigned by a local boyar to hunt down a Gypsy slave (Toma Cuzin) who fled his estate after allegedly having an affair with the boyar's wife. The constable's young son, Ionita (Mihai Comanoiu), accompanies Costandin in his assignment, serving as his assistant. Thus begins a road trip that provides the viewer with an in-depth and sometimes shocking look at Romania's society of the time.

The film's primary focus is to emphasize the prevailing norms, perspectives, and attitudes towards ethnicity and social hierarchy prevalent during the time. The character interactions shed light on the father-son relationship, moral relativism, and cultural attitudes. Costandin, blunt and occasionally humorous, is a character living within the limitations of his societal beliefs and values. Ionita, being the young boy he is, imbibes the teachings of his father while trying to make sense of the world around him.

The film allows viewers to comprehend the meaning and reality of 'otherness', through the lens of a society deeply entrenched in religious bigotry, social injustice, and racial discrimination. It explores the concept of 'freedom' in its various forms - from the literal freedom the Gypsy slave craves, to the freedom from the rigid societal roles every character yearns.

Teodor Corban breathes life into Costandin, balancing the character's harsh, prejudiced outlook with an undeniable charisma that keeps you engrossed. Comanoiu, as Ionita, is equally commendable, delivering a performance full of innocence and wonder, gradually transforming as the story unfolds. The entire acting ensemble maintains an authentic portrayal of the era, making the narrative more relatable and absorbing.

Radu Jude's direction successfully molds a historical drama into a dark comedy, exploiting humor to discuss grave societal issues. He does not shy away from emphasizing the harsh reality of discrimination and unjustifiable prejudice prevalent in human societies, boldly showcasing Romania's past and allowing it to resonate with a global audience.

Aferim! brilliantly encapsulates the harsh realities of the 19th century Wallachian society and illuminates the universal characteristic of racial prejudice, which unfortunately is still a pressing issue worldwide. The quirky dialogue keeps you amused while the raw depictions keep you pondering on the critical aspects of societal norms and their impacts.

The black and white format of the film adds to the aesthetic charm and historical authenticity of the narrative. Every frame is meticulously planned, giving the viewer a chance to almost experience the raw and unvarnished version of the times it represents.

Aferim! is more than just a historical drama; it is a social commentary, an education, a mirror reflecting back the darkest aspects of humankind. It explores religious, racial, and gender-based discrimination, employing the 19th-century Wallachian backdrop as a metaphor to address these issues even as they persist today. The gritty and raw representation of discrimination and bigotry in Aferim! provides an underscore to the continuing dialogues on social prejudice and bias in society today.

Though the narrative can be dark and often brutal, Aferim! is a film that holds you captive with its compelling storyline, nuanced performances, and thought-provoking themes. It is an enlightening and immersive experience that serves as an important reminder of the inhumanity humans are capable of under societal pressure and prejudice. In all, Aferim! is a significant cinematic achievement that awaits the viewer's introspection and understanding.