The Trader

The Trader (Sovdagari) is a uniquely intriguing documentary that provides insight into a different world. Directed and written by Tamta Gabrichidze, this Netflix original, with a concise runtime of 23 minutes, follows the life and work of a traveling salesman in the beautiful but economically challenged nation of Georgia. Released in 2018, the movie offers audiences a peek into the heart of traditional Georgian life and economic struggles, remarkably avoiding elements of sensationalism, despite the challenging circumstances it documents.

The plot centers on Gela, a middle-aged man who is a traveling trader. Without a conventional store or market stall, Gela is akin to a modern-day nomad. His store is his minivan, and he progresses from one rural village to another, navigating through the Georgian landscapes' winsome charm.

Gela trades secondhand clothes, home accessories, toys, and other knick-knacks, but there is a twist to his business model. Instead of using money, Gela trades his goods for potatoes, an agricultural staple in these parts of Georgia. The potatoes he gathers through his reviews become his currency for successful trade in locations where cash is scarce. This barter system speaks to the ingenuity and adaptability of people in austere situations, preserving their dignity.

The Trader (Sovdagari) goes beyond just being a documentary about one man's trade; it gracefully unravels a commentary on socio-economic conditions in remote rural areas of Georgia. The movie allows viewers to keenly observe and understand different aspects of the prevailing economic realities from an empathetic lens. It's a narrative about resourcefulness and resilience, and it takes a close look at people grappling with poverty and making the most of their means.

Filmed on location, the film's cinematography captures the stark beauty of the Georgian countryside, contrasted with the lived-in rusticity of village homes. The color palette and camera work contribute further to the captivating narrative. It elegantly paints a mesmeric yet real portrayal of Georgia - a world that most viewers might not get a chance to experience otherwise.

Gela's interactions with his clients, mostly elderly people, offer a profound and heartwarming highlight of the film. Their conversations frequently segue into various topics, giving spectators a unique perspective of the beliefs, hopes, experiences, and daily battles of these resilient souls. The viewers become less of an audience and more of a participant in their lives.

Adding to its quintessential charm, The Trader (Sovdagari) succeeds in engaging and captivating viewers without the use of music. This approach retains the authenticity of the environment and the intimacy of Gela's interactions, holding the audience in its grasp without any external auditory manipulations.

Portraying the spirit of survival, friendship, and humanity amid economic hardship, The Trader (Sovdagari) is subtle yet powerful. The beautifying effect of simplicity in film-making has often been underestimated, but this documentary indeed makes viewers reconsider that notion. Its narration gracefully intertwines multiple themes, the simplicity of rural lifestyle, the age-old barter system in modern times, the resilience of humanity, and the distinct economic landscape of Georgia.

To round off its achievements, The Trader (Sovdagari) won the award for the Best Short Documentary Film at the Sundance Film Festival, an accolade testifying to its importance and high-quality production values. Despite its potential to be overshadowed by bigger, flashier film productions, The Trader (Sovdagari) manages to hold its own, carving out a memorable spot in the minds of viewers.

In conclusion, The Trader (Sovdagari) is much more than a film about a traveling trader. It's an evocative exploration of resilient people, a reflection on society, and an artful revelation of the universal human spirit. It's an absolute must-watch for anyone looking to delve into a different cultural experience or simply appreciate the beauty of empathetic, slice-of-life filmmaking.