"Golden Leopard Competitor 'Dry Leaf' Obtained for Global Distributions by Heretic; Trailer Released Exclusively"
In the world of cinema, the upcoming film "Dry Leaf" by Georgian director Alexandre Koberidze is generating significant buzz. Set to have its world premiere in the International Competition at the Locarno Film Festival, this sophomore feature by Koberidze promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant journey.
The film, inspired by a 1950s soccer technique known as the "Didi" technique, takes its title from the unpredictable flight of a falling leaf, a metaphor central to its narrative. This metaphor is used to explore themes of uncertainty, fate, and surrender, mirroring the unpredictable nature of life and its various factors.
"Dry Leaf" tells the story of sports photographer Lisa, played by an unnamed actress, who mysteriously disappears while photographing rural soccer stadiums in Georgia. Her father, Irakli, portrayed by the director's own father, David Koberidze, embarks on a journey to find her, accompanied by her mysterious best friend.
The film was shot entirely on a Sony Ericsson, lending an authentic and raw quality to its visuals. Giorgi Koberidze, the director's brother, composed the immersive score for the film, further enhancing its emotional impact.
Alexandre Koberidze, in a director's statement provided to Variety, explains the metaphor of the falling leaf, stating, "Just as a falling leaf changes direction and speed unpredictably, I use this imagery to convey the unpredictable nature of life and the inevitability of fate."
Ioanna Stais, Heretic's head of sales and acquisitions, described "Dry Leaf" as a "mesmerizing and emotionally rich journey, crafted with rare freedom and quiet boldness." Heretic has acquired the world sales rights for the film, affirming Koberidze's singular vision.
"Dry Leaf" is produced by Mariam Shatberashvili and Luise Hauschild for New Matter Films (Germany) in co-production with Alexandre Koberidze (Georgia). The film also features Irina Chelidze, Vakhtang Fanchulidze, Giorgi Bochorishvili, and Otar Nijaradze.
In addition to "Dry Leaf", Heretic will also be in Locarno with "The Birthday Party", starring Willem Dafoe. This film, being sold by both Heretic and Bankside, promises to be another intriguing offering at the festival.
Koberidze's previous work, "What Do We See When We Look At the Sky?", premiered to widespread acclaim in the Berlinale's main competition in 2021. With "Dry Leaf", he continues to push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling, offering audiences a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Movies-and-TV audiences seeking engaging entertainment should watch out for "Dry Leaf", a thought-provoking sophomore feature by Georgian director Alexandre Koberidze. This cinematic journey, based on a soccer technique and inspired by the unpredictable flight of a leaf, explores themes of uncertainty, fate, and surrender, providing a unique and emotional viewing experience.
