Ismail’s Dilemma (2020)
-
Country:
Albania
-
Duration:
30 min
- Program:
- Type:
-
Genre:
drama
-
Director:
Dhimiter Ismailaj-Valona
-
Producer:
Erand Sojli, Dhimiter Ismailaj-Valona
-
Cast:
Arben Bajraktaraj, Erand Sojli, Mehdi Malkaj, Andi Begolli
About film
Ismail’s Dilemma is a rare large-scale project for the Albanian film industry, especially when it comes to such an untypical theme. Albania is occupied by the Nazis, and Ismail, a poor peasant, hides two Orthodox Jews in his house. Ismail is tormented: he knows he must protect his family above all else, especially some strangers — but his hands are tied by upholding the fundamental idea of the Albanian national consciousness and character, the unwritten universal code of honour that is called Besa — the boundless loyalty to one’s word.
Rewards and nominations
- Carmarthen Bay Film Festival 2020 (UK) — Best Foreign Short
- Southampton International Film Festival 2020 — Costume Design; nominee: Leading Actor, Production Design
- New York Jewish Film Festival 2021 — Official Selection
- DokuFest 2020 (Kosovo) — Official Selection
- Vienna Jewish Film Festival 2021 — Official Selection
Director
Dhimiter Ismailaj-Valona is an Albanian director, screenwriter, and producer. He is the author of several short films, which had success at international film festivals. For instance, his comedy with a funny name Growing up Fat & Albanian (2017) won eight awards and was screened at more than twenty festivals. The director’s latest work, Ismail’s Dilemma, is a way more sombre historical drama about the Albanian side of World War II. Critics note that Ismailaj-Valona’s works are notable for their unique perspective on social problems and his dedication to observing them.
Trailer
Director
Dhimiter Ismailaj-Valona is an Albanian director, screenwriter, and producer. He is the author of several short films, which had success at international film festivals. For instance, his comedy with a funny name Growing up Fat & Albanian (2017) won eight awards and was screened at more than twenty festivals. The director’s latest work, Ismail’s Dilemma, is a way more sombre historical drama about the Albanian side of World War II. Critics note that Ismailaj-Valona’s works are notable for their unique perspective on social problems and his dedication to observing them.
