Hey Babu Riba

Hey Babu Riba is an endearing cinematic gem released in 1985 that masterfully combines elements of coming-of-age drama, romance, friendship, social commentary, and historical backdrop. A Franco-American-Yugoslavian collaboration, this film is directed by Jovan Acin and stars remarkable actors Gala Videnovic, Relja Basic, and Nebojsa Bakocevic, whose compelling performances reaffirm the film's captivating narrative.

The plot presents four male protagonists: Glenn, Sacha, Kicha, and Pop. These childhood friends, each distinct in personality, share a robust emotional bond. The film cleverly reveals their characteristics, using their nicknames derived from their fascination with the Western culture in the post-World War II period, each representing their unique aspiration and imitation of Western icons like Glenn Miller, Alexander the Great, Nikola Tesla, and Gary Cooper.

Gala Videnovic plays the character of Estelle, an inspiring young woman who shares a mutual affection and camaraderie with these friends. The group enjoys an intimate rapport with a fascination for Western pop culture and a shared dream of a peaceful, prosperous Belgrade. However, their friendship is intertwined with a remarkable blend of affectionate rivalry and silent ego; the dynamics of their connection become even more complicated when a love polygon involving beautiful Estelle emerges.

The movie does an excellent job of incorporating one of the essential elements of the era, rowing, and gives it symbolic significance. The friends form an amateur rowing team, becoming successful enough to be qualified to participate in the Yugoslavian Championship. Amidst this, the story also delves into tumultuous romantic entanglements, setting the movie's tone towards a romantic and dramatic narrative that explores the intricacies of falling in love, maintaining friendships, and dealing with the backlash of societal norms and expectations.

The hard-hitting sociopolitical realities of the time aren't overlooked but rather minutely woven into the film's tapestry. The movie's backdrop is set in the repressive communist regime of the 1950s, creating a stark contrast against the youthful optimism of the characters. It underlines the struggles of living under a dominating system that tries to suppress individuality and freedom of thought. The four friends and Estelle wrestle with their ambitions of a Western lifestyle dream against the harsh realities of the Eastern Bloc.

Jovan Acin adopts a non-linear storytelling method which brings additional depth and intrigue to the narrative. The film opens in the 1980s with a pregnant Estelle visiting New York to meet Glenn. The story then transitions back to their youth in 1953 Belgrade, thus unfolding their bygone days, recalling shared dreams, romantic endeavors, and subtle conflicts. The back and forth narrative style adds to the air of mystery, revealing bit by bit about the teenagers' past, making viewers more curious about their history, secrets, and their current circumstances.

Every character is distinctly crafted, each of their storylines contributes significantly to the plot. This movie is not just about their group dynamics, but also diligently explores their individuality and aspirations. Apart from the main characters' story, it gives ample attention to the supporting characters as well, making the narrative more enriching and elaborative.

From remarkable performances, detailed character building, impressive direction, and subtle incorporation of socio-political reality, Hey Babu Riba gives a multifaceted cinematic experience. Accompanied by an exceptional 50s-inspired soundtrack that enhances the overall mood of the film, it successfully recreates the era's unique charm and struggles. By tackling themes such as adolescence, friendship, love, societal expectations, and political challenges, the movie ends up painting a poignant, bittersweet picture of youth in a bygone era.

Hey Babu Riba is a heartwarming reflection on friendship, love, and shared dreams amidst societal and political turmoil, a film that stays with the viewers long after it ends. A true cinematic spectacle, reiterating the power of friendship and the resilience of dreams, this Yugoslavian movie stands as a fine specimen of international cinema in the 80s era.