We Will Riot

"We Will Riot" is a 2013 independent film directed and written by Romas Zabaraukas. It blends personal narratives with societal issues, creating a profound commentary on identity, love, culture, music, and social unrest. The film boasts a diverse cast, including emerging talents like Ebeneezer Nii Sowah, Beata Tiskevic, and Sarunas Zenkevicius.

The story starts with the protagonist, Luke, a young, aspiring DJ from Brooklyn, New York, portrayed by Ebeneezer Nii Sowah. Being a passionate music lover, Luke feels a deep, emotional connection to the beats he creates, pushing him to yearn for more from his work and life. In a quest to connect with his roots and find more substantial inspiration for his music, he decides to visit his homeland, Lithuania.

Luke's journey back to Lithuania forms the backbone of the movie. As he explores the city of Vilnius, he encounters a complex blend of cultures, traditions, and contemporary realities that shape his experiences and perceptions. Here, he encounters Beata, a stunning Lithuanian woman with a mysterious air, played by Beata Tiskevic. They form an unlikely bond that gradually evolves. Their relationship serves as more than just a romantic subplot - it's also a vibrant exploration of intercultural relationships, shedding light on the subtle nuances, challenges, and beauties intrinsic in these interactions.

Sarunas Zenkevicius stars as Martynas, another complex character whose life intertwines with Luke's in a most unexpected way. This relationship further enhances Luke's understanding of Lithuania's societal reality, thereby giving the audience an on-ground exposure to the country's socio-economic scenario.

The movie does a commendable job by intertwining the personal journey of its characters with broader societal themes - fostering a compelling narrative that's both intimate and encompassing. Themes of identity, culture shock, love, and the power of music are explored meticulously throughout the film, giving audiences a thoughtful and profound cinematic experience.

Age-old cultural traditions, clash with the rapidly changing sociopolitical landscape of Lithuania provides an interesting backdrop to the movie. The title, "We Will Riot," is reflective of an undercurrent of rebellion. It seems to symbolize an uprise against the deep-seated societal conventions and norms.

Music serves as a vital element in the film, almost acting as an additional character. Luke's DJ aspirations and the evolving music of the Lithuanian underground scene create an ambiance that sets the tone of the narrative. Coupled with its universal appeal, the music enables the audience to connect deeper with the film’s themes and characters. The blend of live performances and DJ sets lead to a uniquely captivating sound design that further enhances the movie’s overall appeal.

"We Will Riot" was shot in New York and Lithuania, making full use of these culturally dense locations to immerse audiences in the story. The cinematography by Narvydas Naujalis beautifully captures these diverse locales, bringing alive the hustle of Brooklyn and the contrasting, enchanting old-world charm of Vilnius. From the bustling streets of America to the quaint European landscapes, every frame seems carefully crafted to reflect the emotions the characters are experiencing while effectively illustrating the stark differences in the cultural milieu they inhabit.

As a director, Zabarauskas manages to string together these disparate elements into a coherent narrative. While his storytelling might be subtle and unhurried, it is palpably penetrating, getting under the skin of his characters and their surroundings.

This film is painted with multiple layers of intrigue, tenderness, awakening, and defiance that seamlessly mesh with the profoundly emotional upheavals experienced by Luke. The sound design, editing, and performances culminate in a visually stunning and emotionally charged drama that has a unique, personal touch while being universally relatable.

In summary, “We Will Riot” is more than a mere tale of self-discovery or a cross-cultural love story or even socio-political commentary. It rises above these conventional motifs through its delicate handle of stark contrasts and its in-depth explorations into love, music, rebellion, and the inescapable feeling of being caught between two vastly different worlds. It's a film that consciously celebrates diversity and interconnectedness while simultaneously focusing light on the pressing societal issues that are often left in the dark. This fusion of thought-provoking themes, stark realism, and earnest performances make it a deeply impactful cinematic journey that’s worth exploring.