Ambawi Suramis tsichisa

Fantastical visual worlds of typical Parajanovian extravagance open up before you in the severe framings of the opulently constructed tableaus that Parajanov uses to narrate an archaic Georgian legend. To order to fend off attacks by their enemies, the inhabitants of remote mountain region try to build a fortress. According to a prophecy, the construction can only be successfully completed if a young warrior can be built into its walls while still alive. Young Surab volunteers for the task… Parajanov’s penultimate film – a reflection on the landscape, its inhabitants and their relationship to those in power – was made in Georgia following a 15-year work ban. (mg)