“Guria”, interview with director Levan Koguashvili and producer Boris Frumin

Guria, by director Levan Koguashvili, presented in Venice Spotlight at Venice Film Festival, is a black-and-white tragicomic story set in Western Georgia during the tumultuous period following the collapse of the Soviet Union. Director Levan Koguashvili and producer Boris Frumin discuss how the film captures a complex era through a blend of humor and seriousness, emphasizing authenticity and human relationships.

The cultural and historical context behind “Guria”

Koguashvili explains that the inspiration came from real stories he heard from people living in Georgia during the 1990s. He wanted to portray that decade not just as a time of hardship, but also as a period filled with warmth, irony, and human resilience. Koguashvili emphasizes the importance of recording life in Georgia as it truly was, respecting the reality of his country and its people, rather than resorting to fictionalized or exaggerated depictions. Frumin adds that their goal was to represent the everyday struggles and moments of joy that defined that era, offering an authentic window into Georgian life during a turbulent time.

Balancing tragedy and comedy in “Guria”

Koguashvili and Frumin reveal that their approach to storytelling was heavily influenced by Italian neorealism, which combines elements of tragedy and comedy. They believe that cinema should reflect the full spectrum of human experience, especially in difficult times. In Guria, humor is a vital tool to explore survival and human connection without diminishing the seriousness of the characters’ struggles. Koguashvili notes that the film’s mix of comedy and tragedy aims to offer a nuanced perspective on Georgian society, emphasizing the resilience and kindness of its people.

The importance of real human relationships in “Guria”

A key aspect of Guria is its focus on genuine human interactions. Koguashvili and Frumin point out that the film’s strength lies in its ability to bring to life the everyday decency and warmth of Georgian society, making the audience connect emotionally with the characters’ journeys. Through this authentic depiction, Guria reminds viewers of the enduring human spirit amid hardship.

 

Plot