TIFF 2024: April (With Movie Trailer)
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2024 is buzzing with excitement, and one of the standout films this year is April, the much-anticipated second feature from writer-director Dea Kulumbegashvili. Known for her bold and provocative storytelling, Kulumbegashvili once again delivers a film that is sure to leave audiences reflecting on its powerful themes long after the credits roll.
April tells the story of Nina, played by Ia Sukhitashvili, an ob-gyn living in a remote region of eastern Georgia, near the imposing Greater Caucasus mountains. Nina’s life is anything but easy, as she navigates the rugged landscape of both her environment and the societal pressures placed on women in her community. With a strong, no-nonsense character, Nina stands out as a woman determined to live life on her terms, even when those terms place her at odds with the law.
The film delves deep into the complexities of Nina’s life. By day, she is a dedicated ob-gyn, helping women through the often grueling process of childbirth. But after hours, she performs illegal abortions for women who have nowhere else to turn. It’s a dangerous game, one that becomes even more perilous when a baby dies under her care at the hospital. As rumors about her clandestine activities begin to spread, Nina finds herself under investigation, her morals and professionalism called into question.
What makes April truly compelling is how it portrays the intersections of existence and womanhood. Nina’s struggles are not just her own; they reflect the broader challenges faced by women in her society — and, by extension, women everywhere who find themselves navigating systems that often work against them.
Kulumbegashvili’s direction, combined with Arseni Khachaturan’s stunning cinematography, brings the stark beauty of the Georgian landscape to life, creating a backdrop that mirrors the harsh realities Nina faces. The film’s atmosphere is further heightened by Matthew Herbert’s original score, which perfectly complements the emotional weight of the story.
For those attending TIFF 2024, April is a must-see. Its exploration of themes such as violence, sexual violence, and the moral dilemmas that come with practicing medicine in a conservative society is sure to resonate with viewers. The film is both a visual and emotional tour de force, showcasing Kulumbegashvili’s continued growth as a filmmaker.
Showtimes:
Don’t miss the chance to experience April at one of its screenings:
- Sunday, September 8 at 8:10 pm – Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
- Tuesday, September 10 at 9:30 pm – Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
- Wednesday, September 11 at 5:45 pm – Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
- Saturday, September 14 at 9:45 pm – TIFF Lightbox
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dea Kulumbegashvili or new to her work, April is a film that promises to spark conversation and leave a lasting impression. Be sure to add it to your TIFF itinerary!
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