THE LIBERATION OF SKOPJE

In 1941 in the German-occupied village of Skopje, two shattering events occur. First, the assassination of a German officer by the resistance. Next, the arrival of Captain Muller, transferred from assignment in Africa. As the Germans ruthlessly try to exterminate the resistance fighters, Muller becomes obsessed with a village woman, seducing her into becoming his housekeeper with offers of food and money. All this is closely observed by Zoran, the young son of Lica, the object of Muller’s frightening attentions. Lica sees few alternatives to keeping her family fed and safe. Zoran sees the horrors and betrayals of combat everywhere he goes, including his own home. THE LIBERATION OF SKOPJE is a touching and terrifying look at the devastation warfare brings to families. Zoran knows his mother is seen as a traitor and that his world may end in a second. Events are hurtling towards an uncertain conclusion. We watch with Zoran as he clings to the tatters of hope and childhood, praying for the liberation of Skopje. (In Macedonian, Bulgarian, and German with subtitles) —C.R. THE LIBERATION OF SKOPJE was selected as Macedonia's entry for Best Foreign Language Film for this year's Academy Awards®.