Wednesday 22 April 2020
10.00 am, 2.30 pm, 5.00 pm and 7.15 pm
Directed by Tamara Kotevska, Ljubomir Stefanov
Documentary Drama Subtitled
99 mins
Macedonia M
Honeyland is a portrait of one of Europe’s last wild beekeepers and explores the tussle between old-world sustainability and new-world progress. Shot over three years, this beautifully rendered observational character study won the 2019 World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at Sundance. It follows apiarist Hatidze Muratova and her elderly mother, who live a spare existence in the remote Macedonian countryside. Hatidze tends her bee hives along rocky outcrops, adhering to her strict honey-gathering principle of ‘take half, leave half’. Her hard-won equilibrium is up-ended when a large family take root next to her home and their opportunism threatens the health of the hives. Honeyland is an exquisite documentary that captures the subject’s infectious delight for the world in each incredible shot. Nominated for 2 Oscars – Best Documentary and Best International Film.
“Hatidze’s story is heartbreakingly moving, and needs no heavy editorialising. Her strength, dignity, resilience and humanity carry the film’s truth and weight.” – Paul Byrne, Sydney Morning Herald
“Honeyland really is a miraculous feat, shot over three years as if by invisible camera – not a single furtive glance is directed towards the film-makers.”. – Cath Clarke, Guardian
“a sublime and deeply moving documentary…” – Mark Demetrius, Filmink.