Lazar

The 2015 movie "Lazar", is a heart-wrenching portrayal of a young man trying to navigate the brutal world of human trafficking. This emotional crime drama directed by Svetozar Ristovski and set in Macedonia is filled with suspense, tension, desperation and is centered around the complex and resilient character, Lazar played by Vedran Zivolic. Lazar provides the audience with a raw and chilling insight into the often overlooked human sufferings in the underbelly of society.

The movie immerses you initially into Lazar's daily life as a petty thief, stealing from tourists in a beach town in Macedonia. Lazar's hardened exterior and innately cunning nature make him a survivor amidst the rough circumstances. He seems to be content with his lifestyle, supplemented with earnings from occasional petty theft until he meets Katerina, played by Natasha Petrovic. Katerina’s character is introduced as a free-spirit, full of joy and aspiration which counters Lazar's cynical and harsh worldview. Their relationship brings a spark of warmth and hope to an otherwise gloomy storyline.

However, the plot takes a dark turn when Lazar is ushered into the world of organized crime and human trafficking by his mentor and crime accomplice, Ivo played by Dejan Lilic. Ivo, barely older than Lazar but experienced in the ways of the criminal underworld, becomes instrumental in Lazar's descent into the darker aspects of crime. The movie aptly portrays a chilling paradox of men who seem normal by day but are part of the inhumane business of human trafficking by night.

Things start shifting for Lazar as he becomes a part of this dangerous world and gets trapped in a complex web of deceit, treachery, and moral compunctions. His love for Katerina and her compelling persona steers a new path for him that brings out the struggle of his inner conscience. Being torn apart between his love for Katerina and his allegiance to Ivo and the crime world he is now a part of, Lazar is faced with decisions that could cost him dearly.

The character of Katerina stands as a beacon of hope in Lazar's otherwise dark existence. Herein, the director does an excellent job at depicting how their relationship subtly introduces Lazar to the possibility of a different kind of life. This prospect loosens his attachment to the criminal world and he battles to reclaim the redemption that seems almost insurmountable.

Director Svetozar Ristovski paints a vivid picture of two contrasting worlds in Lazar's life — one ruled by love, tenderness and dreams and the other by exploitation, destitution and crime. The juxtaposition of these two worlds is effectively played out through the characters of Lazar and Katerina. Their struggle grows increasingly personal, dramatic and intense as the movie progresses fostering an engaging cinematic experience.

Vedran Zivolic’s performance as Lazar is admirable, he effortlessly fires up the screen with his raw magnetism and passionate portrayal bringing the character to life. He greatly delivers on his character’s transformation and internal conflict. On the other side, Natasha Petrovic’s portrayal of Katerina resonates with innocence and purity in the grim world of the plot. Her performance creates an aura of light amidst the darkness. Dejan Lilic as the devious yet charismatic Ivo adds an additional layer of intrigue to the narrative.

The film overall is an intense experience and a remarkably courageous commentary on the harsh realities of human trafficking. Ristovski skillfully masterminds a gritty portrayal of a world rarely seen, a dark underbelly where human life is a commodity. It carries a powerful social message and instills a sense of urgency to address these issues in our society.

"Lazar" is not just another crime drama. It is a thought-provoking movie that forces the viewers to comprehend the harsh realities of life and the bitter truth about human trafficking. In spite of the grim theme and distressing storyline, this crime drama lures the audience with moments of hope and resilience. Emotional, thrilling, and deeply moving, "Lazar" is a testament to the enduring spirit of love and the human capacity for change. The narrative maintains suspense until the very end, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats, wondering about Lazar’s choice and how it would alter the course of his life. The storytelling is intricate, the cinematography is alluring and the performances are captivating, making "Lazar" a must-watch for fans of international cinema.