FESTIVAL WINNER GOODBYE GOLOVIN
Death is an Emancipation in Kiev
Goodbye Golovin is a well-written short with awards from Odessa International Film Festival, Shorts Mexico, Berlin International Film Festival, Short Fest, and Grand Prix. It follows loner Iaia Golovin who’s just lost his father. He mourns his father with his family, celebrates his newfound independence, and decides to leave home. The timeless theme of escapism is set in Ukraine. It is directed by Mathieu Grimard and stars OLEKSANDR RUDINSKIY, DASHA PLAHTIY, and MARIIA STOPNYK. Golovin introduces his sister and her roommate Masha, who attend his father’s funeral, to the film. He comments that he hates when Masha calls him Iaia and doesn’t understand her attempts to sympathize with him.
Golovin sticks to himself and doesn’t connect with others. He is wrapped up in conversations that play in his head. As Golovin’s family mourns, he remains separate and aloof. He is a lonely daydreamer trying to narrate his life while planning for change.
The cinematography of the film is beautiful. Wide shots impress the viewer and work with the ethereal score that guides the film. The cinematographer, ARIEL METHOT, captures the city beautifully.
Golovin’s final shot is a close-up of the title character, revealing a cut-up face. The film is powerful and celebrates independence, death, and freedom. It is streaming on Vimeo.
