The film delves into the unexplored theme of the displacement of the Rusyn, an East Slavic ethnic group from the Eastern Carpathians in Central Europe, during the construction of the Starina reservoir in the 1980s. Set against this tumultuous backdrop, Flood intertwines personal and collective stories, bringing to the forefront the often-overlooked plight of the Rusyn minority in Slovakia.
Gonda's film speaks to minorities, individuals who have experienced displacement and young adults through its protagonist, Mara. The story unfolds in a small village, threatened by an impending flood due to the construction of the reservoir. Mara, a young woman yearning for city life and an education, is bound to her rural roots by her strict father, a Rusyn farmer, who refuses to relinquish his land and legacy despite the looming end of their world. Flood explores the themes of adolescence, uprooting and the sacrifice of personal desires for the greater good. The film seeks to elicit reflections on one's roots and the concept of home, as well as the challenges of navigating a disappearing culture and heritage.
The Starina reservoir's construction, which lasted from 1981-1988, led to the largest displacement in Slovak history. Gonda's personal connection to the region, having spent his childhood summers there, adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative. The film not only recounts the physical destruction of the seven Rusyn villages, but also captures the emotional and cultural impact of this event on the community. The director aims to present a deeply researched, emotive and intimate story as well as diving into the complex dynamics between personal identity, community ties and the inexorable march of progress. The movie is poised to engage and challenge audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the often-painful interplay between tradition and modernity.
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