Venice Golden Lion recipient Milcho Manchevski’s latest feature, “Sister Brother Manhole Cover,” is set to make its world premiere in the main competition at the Tokyo International Film Festival, Variety has exclusively reported. The festival appearance coincides with the global debut of the film’s trailer.
Francesca Breccia’s Coccinelle Film Sales is managing international distribution for the project. The sales agent will begin presenting the film to global buyers during the Asian Contents & Film Market at the Busan International Film Festival.
Manchevski serves as both writer and director on this dark comedy, which follows siblings Malina and Viktor as they struggle to survive on the margins of Macedonian society. To get by, the siblings steal bronze busts and manhole covers with bold defiance. Their journey eventually leads them to a wealthy, blind elderly woman whose complex blend of kindness and sternness forces the siblings to confront their own moral compasses and the meaning of devotion.
“Our anti-heroes defiantly refuse to identify as victims,” Manchevski said regarding the characters.
The cast features Sara Klimoska and Filip Trajkovikj in leading roles, alongside Sonja Mihajlova. Jane Kortoshev is credited as producer.
Reflecting on the narrative, the filmmaker noted, “I was interested in telling a story of great love and unconditional acceptance that is not erotic.”
This project marks a return to Tokyo for Manchevski, whose previous feature “Kaymak” also premiered in the festival’s competition. His earlier work includes “Before the Rain,” which secured the Golden Lion at Venice, won the Fipresci Prize, and received an Academy Award nomination for best foreign-language film. His subsequent features include “Dust,” which opened the Venice Film Festival, as well as “Mothers” and “Willow.”
The quote about unconditional acceptance not being erotic is intriguing. That suggests a profound, platonic bond which is rare to see portrayed well.
Stealing manhole covers for survival sounds familiar. Hope the execution avoids being too farcical and actually finds some depth.
Love that he returns to Tokyo! The city often serves as a perfect backdrop for stories about marginalized outsiders finding connection.
Before the Rain remains a masterpiece. I am genuinely curious how this dark comedy stacks up against his earlier political thrillers.