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Solemn Promise

Name: Solemn Promise
Director: Srđan Karanović
Released: 2009
Duration: 106 min

Representation Score

6.2/10

Good

2009

Director

Srđan Karanović

Runtime

106 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Solemn Promise is a thoughtful exploration of overlapping identities under systemic strain. It excels in depicting ethnic diversity, blending Slovene, Albanian, and Serbian identities to create a rich, multi-vocal experience. However, the film remains confined by a narrow focus on heterosexual relationships and lacks representation of disabilities or explicit LGBTQ+ narratives.

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Category Breakdown

Does Solemn Promise have LGBTQ+ representation?

Fair

The story focuses on a heterosexual romance between Lea and Azem, without explicitly addressing queer identities.

How does Solemn Promise portray gender?

Good

Lea's vulnerability shifts traditional power dynamics, and the film challenges the 'husband as protector' stereotype by giving ability to act to Azem when Filip is away.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Solemn Promise?

Excellent

The film stands out by showcasing ethnic diversity, focusing on a relationship between a Slovene woman and an Albanian man, which breaks the mold of ethnic homogeneity.

How does Solemn Promise represent religion and culture?

Good

The 'Besa' oath functions as a powerful moral guide, surpassing formal institutions and religious doctrines, emphasizing cultural honor.

Does Solemn Promise include disability representation?

Minimal

The story does not include characters dealing with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

Effective portrayal of ethnic diversity and multiple voices.
Use of the 'Besa' code to emphasize cultural honor as a moral authority.
Challenges traditional gender roles and protector clichés.

Limited or Absent

Absence of explicit LGBTQ+ representation or narratives.
No characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

At the beginning of the World War I, Filip, a Serbian school director in the Serbian province, has been asked to immediately go to Belgrade to get war schedule. His wife Lea, Slovene, with no one to leave because the two of them recently arrived in the small town and no one really knows them. Azem, an Albanian, school attendance, gives Filip a promise (Besa) to watch the Lea and that nothing will happen. Lea and Azem, are forced to live together in an abandoned school. Their relationship changes during the time.

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