Slovenian Director Kukla’s ‘Fantasy’ Premieres at Locarno Festival

Slovenian director Kukla made her feature film debut with Fantasy, which premiered at the 78th Locarno Film Festival on August 8, 2023. This coming-of-age film introduces audiences to a group of outsiders navigating societal expectations and personal identities.

Exploring Identity and Friendship

Fantasy follows three best friends in their early twenties—Mihrije, Sina, and Jasna—who live in Slovenia. Described as tomboys, these characters resist the conservative norms of their environment. Their lives change dramatically when they encounter Fantasy, a transgender woman, leading them on a journey that delves into the complexities of gender, desire, and self-discovery.

The film features an ensemble cast of primarily first-time actors, including Sarah Al Saleh, Alina Juhart, Mina Milovanović, and Mia Skrbinac. Kukla not only directed the film but also wrote the script, transforming her earlier short film, Sisters, into this full-length feature. The project is a co-production between Slovenia and North Macedonia, with cinematography by Lazar Bogdanović. International sales are managed by Totem Films.

Artistic Vision and Social Commentary

Kukla’s vision for Fantasy is deeply rooted in her own experiences as a woman in the Balkans, a region still marked by patriarchal attitudes. She noted, “The film explores the reawakening of the long-ignored female gaze, inviting women to see themselves through their own lens rather than through external expectations.”

In her director’s statement, Kukla highlighted the importance of addressing gender identity and societal roles. She remarked, “When you’re born a man, you’re just a man. And when you are born a woman, you have to become a woman.” This exploration of identity is central to the narrative and resonates with contemporary discussions about gender and self-acceptance.

The film’s first clip, released exclusively by The Hollywood Reporter, showcases the initial meeting between the three friends and Fantasy, illustrating their varied reactions. A cigarette and ice cream play symbolic roles in this encounter, hinting at the blend of innocence and complexity that defines their relationship.

Kukla, who is also a musician, has garnered attention for her innovative approach to storytelling, particularly through her music videos. Her short film, Sisters, won the Grand Prix International award at the Clermont-Ferrand Film Festival in 2021 and the Audience Award at Premiers Plans d’Angers. With Fantasy, she aims to continue pushing boundaries and fostering dialogue around important social issues.

As audiences prepare to immerse themselves in the world of Fantasy, Kukla’s debut promises a thought-provoking narrative that challenges traditional perspectives and encourages self-reflection.