Production has commenced on Washed and Buried (working title), a new feature film directed by acclaimed Slovenian helmer Martin Turk. The script based on Turk’s concept and co-written by Turk and Italian screenwriter Fabrizio Bozzetti, delves into themes of family, memory, and identity, blending elements of magical realism and family drama. The story follows Nadja, a successful 40-year-old lawyer, who returns to her remote hometown to fulfill her late grandmother's enigmatic final wish, confronting Nadja with long-forgotten places and encounters, as well as hidden family truths that challenge her perception of the past.
Speaking about the project, Martin Turk shared: "Washed and Buried is both a physical and metaphysical journey for the protagonist, Nadja, as she revisits the places of her past that inevitably shape her present. Her history and fears materialize as she searches for the truth about her family—and, in turn, discovers her genuine identity."
Filming is taking place in the confined and isolated valley of Italy's Val Canale, renowned for its local rituals and traditions, which served as inspiration for the film's story. The film stars Lara Komar in the lead role, with major supporting performances by Lučka Počkaj, Vesna Jevnikar, Nejc Cijan Garlatti, and Fulvio Falzarano. Behind the camera is Radislav Jovanov – Gonzo, a frequent collaborator of Turk. The score is composed by Teho Teardo, with editing by Tomislav Pavlic. The creative team also includes production designer Mateja Medvedić, costume designer Gilda Venturini, and make-up artist Tina Šubic Dodočić. Produced by Ida Weiss of Bela Film (Slovenia), the project is a co-production with Marta Zaccaron of Incipit Film (Italy) and Inja Korać of Cobra Chicks (Croatia), with national coproducers RTV Slovenia and Senca Studio also attached to the project. Line production is managed by Sandra Ržen. The production is backed by the Slovenian Film Center, Friuli Venezia Giulia Audiovisual Fund, Croatian Audiovisual Center, Friuli Venezia Giulia Film Commission, and Creative Europe Media. The technical support is provided by the Slovenian national film studio, Viba Film.
Director Martin Turk is considered one of the most prolific Slovenian filmmakers and screenwriters. His feature and short films are regularly featured at the most important Film Festivals and are known for their distinctive visual style. Thematically, they often focus on family relationships. He has received numerous awards, both at home and internationally. At this year's Festival of Slovenian Films, he won the Art Cinema Network of Slovenia Award for his latest film, Kino Volta.
Source: Slovenian Film Centre