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FOS Film Series Continues in Washington

In an effort to help promote Slovak culture in the United States, Friends of Slovakia (FOS) has continued its film series in Washington, DC during 2007. The film events, which are held in cooperation with the Slovak Embassy, offer local residents an opportunity to view Slovak movies that are not otherwise available to the U.S. market. Attendance at the film series is free of charge, with an optional $5 donation to FOS.

In January, FOS screened Juraj Jakubisko's 1985 film, Perinbaba (The Feather Fairy). In this version of an old fairy tale, Perinbaba watches over the seasons and creates snow. One day, she adopts the fearless young Jakub as her assistant. But Jakub soon falls for Elizabeth, who is being persecuted by an evil stepmother and two sisters back on earth. Jakub becomes mortal and returns to earth in an effort to save Elizabeth; however, he is stalked by Death, who emerges in the form of an old hag. It is up to Perinbaba to save Jakub and help him complete his mission. The film deals with mankind's longing for happiness, understanding, and love, as well as the attempt to overcome difficulties and triumph over death.

Another Jakubisko film was shown in March, this time his 1983 masterpiece, Tisícrocná vcela (The Thousand Year Old Bee). A family saga that spans a 30-year period from the late 19th century through the World War I, Tisícrocná vcela begins by focusing on Martin, a beekeeper and bricklayer who lives in a small Slovak village. The latter part shifts to Martin's son, Samo, who becomes political active at a time of rising social tensions, leading up to World War I. The film depicts the family members as they travel in search of work, experience happiness and tragedy, and finally, undergo the suffering of war. The bee is seen as symbolic of the collective identity of the Slovak nation.

The next film event is tentatively scheduled for June 2007 and will be announced on the FOS website and through an e-mail distribution list. Please contact the Friends of Slovakia if you would like to have your name added to the mailing list.