The fourth edition of the Romanian Film Fest Arizona, “Rhythms of Life,” organized by the American Romanian Cultural Society, our long-time partner and one of the most influential cultural organizations of the Romanian American community, captures the essence of human experiences, inviting the audience on a cinematic journey through the vibrant tapestry of Romanian storytelling. Each film reflects the varied rhythms that define our existence—whether through the adrenaline of competition, the chaos of revolution, or the poignant struggles of personal relationships.
The festival is made possible in part by generous support from the Melikian Center: Russian, Eurasian & East European Studies at Arizona State University and partially funded by a City of Tempe – Community Arts Grant. The festival is supported by the Romanian Cultural Institute.
PROGRAM:
More about the festival HERE.
Special Surprise Screening
November 1, 7:15 PM @ Majestic Tempe 7
103 min / Sports Documentary (2024)
Original Language: Romanian, English. With English Subtitles.
Secret screening of an acclaimed documentary film from Cannes, offering an exclusive look at the untold story of one of Romania’s most iconic sporting figures. A deep dive into the life of a Romanian legend, one of professional sports’ classic rebels and original number 1s. The film portrays his victories, controversies, unconventional persona that challenges established norms; and his influence as an icon who continues to provoke and inspire.
HORIA
November 2, 4:00 PM @ Majestic Tempe 7
108 min. Adventure/ Coming of Age (2023)
Directed by Ana Maria Comănescu. Cast: Vladimir Teca, Angelina Pavel, Daniela Nane
Original Language: Romanian. With English Subtitles.
Restless teenager Horia takes off on his father’s old motorbike on a cross-country journey to reunite with his love. On the road, he is joined by Stela, a sassy 13-year-old, and an unlikely friendship blooms. “Ana-Maria Comănescu’s debut feature, coming-of-age drama, talks about how we are sometimes obsessed with the finish line and ignore the small steps necessary to get there.” Stefan Dobroiu for Cineuropa
WARBOY
November 2, 7:00 PM @ Majestic Tempe 7
85 min. Drama/War (2023)
Directed by Marian Crisan. Cast: Daniel Bâlis, Reginald Ammons
Original Language: Romanian. With English Subtitles.
In the fall of 1944, as World War II nears its end, teenager Nicu ventures through the Apuseni Mountains to save his family’s horses. Warboy blends adventure, war, children’s film, and western genres, offering a family-friendly story. Director Marian Crisan notes, “I believe the story is universal and that it talks about war anytime and everywhere, because children and animals are maybe the most delicate and sensitive beings affected by war.”
WHERE ELEPHANTS GO
(original title: UNDE MERG ELEFANȚII)
November 3, 4:00 PM @ Majestic Tempe 7
115 min. Comedy/Drama (2024)
Directed by Gabi Virginia Sarca, Catalin Rotaru. Cast: Carina Lapusneanu, Stefan Mihai, Alice Cora Mihalache
Original Language: Romanian. With English Subtitles.
Leni, a young girl fighting cancer, clings to life, while her mother juggles working at a restaurant by day and surviving the streets by night. When Leni’s mother falls for Marcel, a rebellious playwright who lives by his own rules, their lives collide in unexpected ways. In a world where fate seems set, these three characters will change each other’s destinies. Where Elephants Go promises a thrilling mix of love, friendship, and twists—”a pseudo-melodrama, a puzzle, and a comedy.” (Eventbook).
FREEDOM
(original title: LIBERTATE)
November 3, 7:20 PM @ Majestic Tempe 7
109 min. Drama/Thriller/War (2023)
Directed by Tudor Giurgiu. Cast: Alex Calangiu, Cătălin Herlo, Ionuţ Caras, Iulian Postelnicu, Alexandru Papadopol, Leonid Doni, Andi Vasluianu, Cuzin Toma, Mirela Oprișor
Original Language: Romanian. With English Subtitles.
Libertate stands out as a remarkable addition to the limited body of Romanian cinema that explores the events of December 1989. Set against the backdrop of the chaotic revolution that toppled the Communist regime, the film unfolds in the Transylvanian city of Sibiu, where a violent assault on a police unit escalates into a bloody confrontation involving soldiers, police, civilian protesters, and secret police operatives. “In his fifth and most accomplished film, Romanian director Tudor Giurgiu delivers a nerve-wracking and gripping thriller about the madness of the fall of the communist regime. It leaves a lasting impression on the viewer with its directorial prowess and the rawness of its subject matter.” Thessaloniki International Film Festival
