Who Wants To Be A President? (Novo Novo Vrijeme)

International Documentary Filmfestival Amsterdam 2001
Who Wants To Be A President? (Novo Novo Vrijeme)
© First Hand Films World Sales
photos courtesy of IDFA 2001

The title offers an interesting question for those who wish to ponder it (in almost any country of the world). When President Franjo Tudjman, who had become regarded by the Croatians as the "father of the people", died unexpectedly at the end of 2000, film director Rajko Grliae and journalist Igor Mirkoviae were busy making a visual record of the political stride taking place during the elections. They filmed the entire proceedings of this election from beginning to end and included the philosophies, policies, and activities of all representatives, ranging from left wing to extreme right.

IDFA 2001

Although the filmmakers have managed to capture a realistic portrait, both in public as well as (to some degree) behind the scenes, of the various men running for election^*, the overall effect does not manage to avoid remaining slightly confusing to any viewer unfamiliar with either Croatia's politics or the values represented by each of the various nominees represented.

As the film concludes, one is offered a summary statement for the various characters and told what happened to each one post-election. It might have been helpful to offer an encapsulated commentary at the onset of the film as well in order to clarify each one's role to those unfamiliar with these faces.

^*The shorter, more concise version of the film will be screened at the IDFA 2001.