In Belsat’s program Hot Commentary Franak Viachorka disclosed his thoughts of Viva Belarus’ effects for both Belarusian and foreign viewers.
Produced in 2011-2012 in Poland, the film was directed by Krzysztof Lukaszewicz who came up with the idea of making this movie after reading an interview with Belarusian opposition activist Franak Viachorka. The young man was forcibly conscripted into the Armed Forces of Belarus by the authorities despite having been found medically unfit. The leading part of Miron was played by Belarusian musician Zmitser Papko (aka Vinsent). The film might have been shown at the Cannes Film Festival but Belarusians are highly unlikely to watch it at their country’s cinemas.
According to Mr Viachorka, the Belarusian viewer will stand a chance of enjoying the movie at special runnings, which will be announced in social media. Moreover, Viva Belarus will appear on the Internet in the middle of the summer.
It is not suprising that the Belarusian authorities’ reception of the movie is far from enthusiastic given the fact that it pictures not only protests against the regime but hazing in the military and everyday life in contaminated areas.
“This is a brand new Belarusian movie. It is the first to appear, it is the first film about present-day Belarus; that is why it is controversial in many respects,” Mr Viachorka stressed.
It is to be noted that Viva Belarus has aroused a wave of healthy criticism in Poland: cinema experts take notice of some extravagance in representing Belarusian realities. At the same time, according to Franak Viachorka, the dischargees see no exaggerations in the army scenes.
Belsat
