Silence of Reason (CinEast Festival)

Festival CinEast

Silence of Reason

Macédonie-Bosnie-Herzégovine 2023 | Kumjana Novakova | documentaire | vostEN | 63’

►Human Rights Award, Documentary Competition, Sarajevo 2023; Best Director, Envision, IDFA 2023; Golden Lily for Best Film, goEast 2023; Prix International, Cinéma du Réel 2024

This forensic video essay highlights the testimonies of women subjected to systematic violence at the Foča rape camps during the Bosnian war. By focusing solely on the victims, the film avoids "mythologizing the horrible" and contributes significantly to recognizing sexual violence and rape as crimes against humanity.

« Following Disturbed Earth, Kumjana Novanova presents a profound, fluid and uncompromising work that aims to serve as a call for remembrance. » (Cineuropa)

« Silence of Reason is a tiny cinematic memorial to both [the womens’] courage and their selfless contribution to a more just society.” » (Kumjana Novakova)