Director Kosara Mitic is set to make her feature film debut with “17,” which will premiere on February 18, 2024, at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film explores the complexities of adolescence through the eyes of its protagonist, Sara, who navigates a harrowing experience during a school trip. After witnessing her friend Lina being sexually assaulted, the narrative delves into the themes of trauma, female solidarity, and the silence that often surrounds such incidents.
The synopsis of “17” indicates that Sara and Lina strive to break the cycle of casual violence, forging a deep bond in the aftermath of their shared experience. The film features performances by Eva Kostic, Martina Danilovska, Dame Joveski, Eva Stojchevska, and Petar Manic. Produced by Black Cat Production in collaboration with Art&Popcorn and December, the film is being represented in world sales by Totem Films.
Unpacking the Inspiration Behind “17”
In an exclusive interview, Mitic revealed that her film began with a question rather than a conventional plot. She reflected on adolescence as a pivotal moment where young individuals are confronted with situations demanding adult emotional maturity. “I was inspired by the emotional aftermath of a single event and how it reverberates quietly through young lives,” she explained.
Mitic emphasized that the focus of “17” is not on sensationalizing trauma, but rather on the silence that often follows such experiences. She aimed to depict how young people internalize their struggles, especially in environments where difficult experiences can be normalized or dismissed. “This film is less about the incident itself and more about what it means to carry something you don’t fully understand,” she stated.
Exploring Female Solidarity and Casting Choices
Mitic’s storytelling approach is characterized by a desire to capture realism and emotional truth. She cited filmmakers who trust in stillness and ambiguity as significant influences on her work. “I wanted to stay very close to the characters, almost in real time, so the audience experiences events alongside them rather than being guided from a distance,” she noted.
When discussing the portrayal of female friendship, Mitic highlighted the profound connections formed during adolescence. “Female solidarity is rarely portrayed with nuance; it is often simplified into rivalry or idealized closeness,” she remarked. In “17,” she sought to depict a quieter form of solidarity that does not require verbal affirmation, emphasizing the emotional core of the film.
The casting process for the film was extensive, as Mitic was determined to find young actors who could convey authenticity. She sought individuals who embodied their own contradictions and silences. “I wasn’t looking for actors performing youths – I was looking for young people who carry their own truths,” she explained.
Mitic’s portrayal of male characters also reflects a nuanced understanding of their fragility and emotional struggles. “I didn’t cast villains; I cast vulnerability,” she said, aiming to create a space where young actors could authentically express themselves.
Looking ahead, Mitic is already developing her next feature, which will explore the emotional violence of silence against women. She aims to handle this subject matter with honesty and respect, avoiding the exploitation of trauma while delivering a powerful narrative.
