Ljubav i drugi zloini

"Ljubav i drugi zločini" is a unique and intriguing film from Serbia, set in the urban landscape of New Belgrade. The movie, released in 2008, is directed by Stefan Arsenijević and showcases an ensemble cast headed by Anica Dobra and Vuk Kostić. The film is essentially a romantic crime drama, laced with quirks of dark humor and iconic character development. The story unfolds in a place that seems stagnant in time, where characters attempt to find optimism, beauty, and love amid their harsh realities.

The audience is introduced to a bleak and depressive winter set in New Belgrade, a concrete jungle of huge buildings where the chilly winds intensify the separation between the people who inhabit them. The protagonist, Anica (played by Anica Dobra), is stuck in an abusive relationship with a gangster boss named Bojan, who uses her as he wishes without showing her any form of emotional attachment. Anica bears the brunt of her life, desperately yearning for an escape while also dreading the void that will be left behind if she manages to secure her freedom.

On the other hand, we have Stanislav (played by Vuk Kostić), a well-meaning but aimless young man who works in an unsuccessful pawn shop whose profits are filtered into Bojan's pocket. Stanislav holds an enduring affection for Anica from their past encounters, but he is never brave enough to confess his feelings to her. The film portrays the interweaving love-loathe relationship between Anica and Stanislav, contrasting their unhappy lives against each other.

The film subtly presents the classical 'robber in love' trope as Anica and Stanislav find themselves at crossroads of their lives. Anica is determined to run away from the life of torment and abuse, while Stanislav decides he wants to confess his love for Anica. The movie takes a smart turn where, by promising Bojan a final score before she disappears forever, Anica juggles her escape while Stanislav deals with the entangling emotions provoked by his love for her.

The narrative also follows the paths of other characters – including Milutin, the genial but forlorn womanizer deeply saddened by the death of his wife; Mirko, the naive pawn shop employee met with the harshness of life way too early; and Marina, the romantic but realistic single mother, all of whom weave this intricate tapestry of stories across different spectrums of New Belgrade's life.

"Ljubav i drugi zločini" is a concoction of several emotions mixed with the perfect balance of humor, love, and stillness. Here, love acts as a sparkle of hope in their mundane and hapless existences, even though it is as much a tormentor as it is a savior. The film explores the ways this love can be criminalized or accepted based on each individual's desperation, creating several "other crimes" that form an underpinning to this movie.

The strikingly powerful performances by Anica Dobra and Vuk Kostić elevate the film to a higher level. Dobra's expressive portrayal of Anica is moving, revealing the character's fragility and strength simultaneously. Kostić, too, succeeds in embodying the sensitive yet sturdy persona of Stanislav, adding depth to his character without embellishing it.

"Ljubav i drugi zločini" stands out with its intense, slow-burn narrative uplifted by remarkable acting and a thorough exploration of love, crime, and human behavior. With the right mix of gripping scenes, engrossing characterization, and a generous dash of dark humor, it gives a stinging look at love and life in this unique setting. It's a film that examines humanity's contours and frailties, making it a must-watch for lovers of the international cinema.