Issue no: 1107 • DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 • PUBLISHED TWICE WEEKLY PRICE: GEL 2.50

In this week’s issue... Georgians Have Lowest Trust in Parliament, Prosecutor’s Offi ce & Court

NEWS PAGE 3 Remembering my Encounters with President Bush

FOCUS ON THE INAUGURATION The President-Elect chooses Telavi- the town where she lost the vote PAGE 3

POLITICS PAGE 4 Is Tourism in a Politician, Author Nika Rurua Dies Threat to Rural Life? SOCIETY PAGE 8 BY AMY JONES Parade: a Georgian Film in the Truest Sense

oaring peaks and unique cave towns, endless green valleys and ancient watchtowers. Georgia’s unique rural life and scenery are attracting more and more international visitors by the Syear. The Georgian National Tourism Adminis- tration announced that more than 8 million peo- ple visited Georgia between January and Novem- ber this year, an increase of 10.6% compared to CULTURE PAGE 15 the same period in 2017. With many of the visi- tors fl ocking to Georgia’s rural areas, could this increase in numbers threaten rural life? My driver pulls sharply on the steering wheel as the contents of his car, myself included, are obvious and progress has been slow. Nonethe- completed, enabling tourists to reach the church fl ung to the left. Darkness makes it impossible to less, investment is slowly trickling into the infra- by car. During the works, the once green foot- see why he has swerved. Probably a cow, I think structure of rural areas, largely due to the hills of Kazbegi were turned into a mud bath of to myself. “Sorry, the road is so bad, better to go increased number of visitors, making local tracks and dirt, tarnishing the view at the top. on the fi eld,” he assures me, noticing my concern. mobility easier. Some question the necessity of the road at all, Those who have visited the farther-fl ung cor- Yet it seems little regard is paid to the potential as the church was already easily accessible after ners of Georgia will be acquainted with nail- destruction of the wild landscapes as new roads a short hike, and an old cable car, already built, biting journeys on narrow roads in terrible con- are built. Works on a road leading from Stepandts- could have been restored and monetized. dition. The need for improved infrastructure is minda to Gergeti Trinity Church were recently Continued on page 6 GEORGIA TODAY 2 NEWS DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 Airbnb Lists as Destination to Visit in 2019

Image source: SECO Start-Up Fund

Photo source: Albatrosureki erate climate. Searches for Batumi on BY AMY JONES 2018 Decline in Georgia’s the platform have seen a year on year increase of 200%. Compiling off-the-beaten-track desti- he popular vacation home nations for travelers, the list includes rental platform Airbnb has Kaikoura in New Zealand, Xiamen in Hazelnut Exports listed Batumi as one of 19 China, Normandy in France, the Great destinations to visit in 2019. Smoky Mountains in the US, Accra in $18 million, but fell in the second and modity group at the HS four-digit level), BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE The article, published on Ghana, Mozambique, and Uzbekistan, third quarters, reaching just $10 million but are now in 10th place after copper T3 December, chose destinations based among others. and $11.5 million, respectively. For the ores, cars, ferroalloys, wine, medicine, on wish list growth data and their own Airbnb is just one of many international fourth quarter, numbers are thus far only cigarettes, liquor, mineral water, fertiliz- research. They expect the cities to become companies and news outlets recently to n January-October 2018, Georgia available for October, which saw $6.2 ers, and gold, for the fi rst ten months of more and more in demand in the com- include Georgia as a place to visit. Geor- exported $45.8 million worth of million worth of exports. 2018. ing year. gian tourism is booming year on year. 8 hazelnuts, a $19 million (29.3%) Exports also fell dramatically in 2017: The majority of hazelnut exports are Batumi, Georgia’s second largest city, million visitors have already visited the decrease year-on-year, reports the a 54%, decrease from the previous year, sent to Italy, Germany and Russia. Hazel- is particularly popular with locals and country from January to November this National Statistics Offi ce of Georgia. with a total volume of $63.8 million. nuts are primarily grown in Georgia’s tourists especially due to its location on year, an increase of 10.6% compared to IExport fi gures were strong during the Hazelnuts were once the second most western, Black Sea coast regions of Adjara the Black Sea coast and year-round mod- the same period in 2017. fi rst quarter of the year with more than exported product from Georgia (by com- and Guria. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 NEWS 3 Occupied Slams NATO Sec Gen's Statement

The ministry claims that the “pres- BY THEA MORRISON ence of Russian forces on the territory of Abkhazia is strictly regulated by inter-state agreements between the he de facto Ministry of two countries.” Foreign Affairs of Geor- The statement also reads that Rus- gia’s occupied region of sia's recognition of occupied Abkha- Abkhazia stated that zia is “ultimate and irreversible.” NATO Secretary General “The strengthening of military coop- TJens Stoltenberg is increasing tension eration in the Georgia-NATO format in the region by calling on Russia to creates an additional threat to peace reverse recognition of breakaway Abk- in the South Caucasus,” the de facto hazia and South Ossetia. ministry said. “The statement made by NATO Sec- Two of Georgia’s regions, Abkhazia retary General Jens Stoltenberg is a and Samachablo (South Ossetia) fell provocation that further escalates the under Russian occupation after the 5-day situation in the region. Such statements August 2008 Russia-Georgia war. from European senior offi cials are The international community, exclud- directed at supporting the aggressor ing Russia, Syria, Nicaragua, Venezuela country, which has carried out many and Nauru, recognizes these territories acts of genocide and armed aggression as integral parts of Georgia and has against the peoples of Abkhazia and many times called on Russia to with- South Ossetia," the so-called ministry draw its forces and reverse the recog- stated. nition of the two breakaway regions. Georgians Have Lowest Trust in Parliament, Prosecutor’s Offi ce & Court

adding the majority of the population BY THEA MORRISON does not understand the hierarchy of authority or the goals of the court reforms. “The majority of Georgia’s population he Parliament, the Prosecu- misunderstands or has no knowledge of tor's Offi ce and the Court who appoints judges, who is legally are the three main institu- allowed or not allowed to dismiss the tions of the country least judges of the Supreme Court of Georgia, trusted by the people. what the primary goal of the introduc- TWithin the project ‘Facilitating Imple- tion of the electronic system of case mentation of Reforms in the Judiciary’ distribution is and what the main func- (FAIR), implemented by the Human tion of the Independent Inspector is,” Rights Education and Monitoring Center the survey reads. (EMC) in cooperation with the Institute Giorgi Mikautadze, Secretary of the for Development of Freedom of Infor- High Council of Justice, stated the sur- mation (IDFI) and Caucasus Research vey revealed people are not well-informed Resource Centers (CRRC), CRRC-Geor- about the recent developments in the gia, a nationwide public opinion survey judiciary system. was conducted in order to understand “I consider this a challenge for the Judi- public opinion about the judicial system ciary and we have already identifi ed it. of Georgia, public views and attitudes Strengthening relations with the public is Image source: Foreign Policy towards the role of the judges, trust in inevitable and the High Council of Justice courts, and knowledge about the imple- ecutor's Offi ce (18%), judges (19%) and not think taking a case to court will make of lesser importance and considers pov- will actively work in this regard,” he said. mented judiciary reforms and their Parliament (15%). things worse, while half the people believe erty and unemployment as the most The survey took place August 30 - Sep- experience with courts. 46% of respondents think that judges that judges in Georgia are not independ- important problems in the country. How- tember 15, 2018 and involved the adult, The survey results show that the high- in Georgia are not independent. About ent,” the fi ndings read. ever, almost half the population is inter- Georgian speaking population of Geor- est trust of society goes to the police one third of respondents (32%) think Moreover, 41% of interviewed people do ested in what is happening in Georgian gia, excluding people in the breakaway (42%), followed by lawyers (35%) and that judges are not fair and 22% of not trust Georgian judges. This indicator courts,” the report reads. regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. the Public Defender (33%). respondents do not believe in their pro- has increased by 21% compared to 2014. The survey also revealed that the pop- Overall, 2,080 people were interviewed Trust towards NGOs (27%) exceeds fessionalism. “The population of Georgia perceives ulation of Georgia is less informed about with the CAPI (Computer Assisted Per- trust in the Prime Minister (24%), Pros- “A large part of the population does an independent judiciary to be an issue the court system and the ongoing reforms, sonal Interviewing) method. New President's Inauguration to Be Held in Telavi

tions and I want to show that I am their "The 2001 Presidential Decree names BY THEA MORRISON President even if they did not vote for the offi cial inauguration place as Rustaveli me,” Zurabishvili stated, adding that Avenue and the parliament building invitations will be sent to foreign delega- there. It also defi nes the circle of people he inauguration ceremony tions and guests. who will meet with the President. This of Georgia’s fi rst female “We will invite everyone we have dip- decree is not in harmony with the new president, Salome Zura- lomatic relations with. Outgoing Presi- legislation. Accordingly, a new rule on bishvili, will be held in dent will also be the inauguration is being made by the Telavi, the administrative invited,” she noted. Prime Minister's Administration,” Kakh- centerT of Georgia's eastern province of Lasha Zhvania, who will become the ishvili said. Kakheti, known as the winemaking region head of Zurabishvili’s Presidential Admin- The Head of the Governmental Admin- of the country. istration, told reporters that by holding istration added that a special commis- Traditionally, the ceremony is held in the inauguration in Telavi, the President- sion was created which will work on the the capital of Georgia, , but as the Elect showed that she is keeping her scenario and the inaugural events. President-Elect stated, this time Telavi pre-election promise that she will pay Kakhishvili said that it had not yet been will play host to this important event. attention to the regions. calculated how much the inauguration Telavi is the town where Zurabishvili “Her fi rst message on inauguration day would cost. was unable to get the majority of votes will be that she is keeping her pre-elec- Kakheti Governor Irakli Kadagishvili in the November 28 runoff. She explained tion promise to be a president of the also confi rmed that the inauguration this is why it was decided to hold the regions,” Zhvania said. ceremony will be held in Telavi, naming inauguration there. The Head of the Georgian Government the likely location to be Batonis Tsikhe, “There were several scenarios, but Administration, Kakha Kakhishvili, said a castle which served as the residence Telavi was my proposal because the that the President's 2001 decree on the of Kakhetian Kings between the 17th and Image source: gstravel.ge whole election campaign was focused inauguration location and procedures is 18th century. The castle encloses two Movement (UNM) and the ex-presiden- plans to hinder the ceremony,” he said. on our need to develop the regions, and incompatible with the existing legisla- churches, the ruins of a royal bathhouse, tial candidate of the opposition and other representatives of I think that Telavi is the right choice. tion. He noted that a new rule for con- and the Persian-style palace of King Vashadze, said the opposition does not the United Opposition plan to hold a The second reason behind my decision ducting inaugurations will be worked Erekle II. care where the ceremony takes place, as protest-rally in central Tbilisi on Decem- is that Telavi did not vote for me. It is out in the Prime Minister's Administra- Zurabishvili’s opponent in the elec- it does not recognize the new president. ber 16, the day the inauguration ceremony one of the places where I lost the elec- tion. tions, member of the United National “We have no issue with it. Nobody is to take place. GEORGIA TODAY 4 POLITICS DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 Remembering My Encounters with President Bush

heard. So let’s just assume that if we told BY WILL CATHCART that story several times a day for the last 14 years to just about everyone we knew, and then they told everyone they knew, am still in the Republic of Georgia then we have done more to reinforce the where I wrote the letter below to reputation of the Secret Service than an President and Mrs. Bush in March entire division of PR offi cers. of 2010. As I refl ect upon the life Meeting you and Mrs. Bush at such a of a remarkable statesman, I delight young age and having y’all take the time Iin having had the opportunity to witness and the patience to treat me as if I was the graciousness that Bush 41 embodied. an adult, has had a profound impression Rest in peace, Mr. President. on my life. I remain a staunch believer “Dear President and Mrs. Bush, in democracy — that our leaders are not When I was 11 years old Easter week- only accessible but it is their duty to be end of 1993, I got up from the dinner so. This is the impression with which table to walk to the bathroom down the you left me. That no elected offi cial in hallway of the Gasparilla Inn in Boca this country was out of my reach or too Grande Florida. On my way, I passed important to speak with me — that no you, several Secret Servicemen and Mrs. dream is too large to pursue. I thank you Bush. At fi rst I didn’t notice you but when for that. Today I am an advisor on U.S. I saw Mrs. Bush, I knew exactly who you and media relations for President Saakash- were. I yelled something inappropriate vili of the Republic of Georgia. There is like “Hey you’re Barbara Bush and you a street here in Tbilisi proudly named — you’re the president.” after your son. You said something like, “Well actually Before that I was the managing editor I used to be.” of the Charleston Mercury in Charleston, Mrs. Bush giggled and said very nicely, S.C., the city where I know Mrs. Bush “Well, hello young man.” attended high school at Ashley Hall. In I was thrilled and said “Sir — ma’am, the last few years I have had the oppor- would you please wait right here so I tunity to interview many great leaders can show y’all to my friend, otherwise and even more great human beings. he won’t believe me.” It humors me to Now 16 years later, I am once again ask- this day that I asked the former leader ing for a little bit of your time. You both of the Free World to wait on me (an have led lives of service to this country 11-year-old) in a hotel lobby. What amazes far and beyond what was ever asked of me even more is how kind you both were you. You are a role model not just to to me. An 11-year-old is a very impres- Republicans, but also a symbol of gentle- sionable creature, and I have never for- manly bipartisanship. I think that, espe- gotten the way you treated me. I think cially in these volatile political times, your you found the situation quite humorous. words and your wisdom would be a You explained that you needed to get soothing and much-needed reminder to going; I believe you were there for a the people of Georgia what it means and wedding. But you pointed to the end of what it takes to live in a true democracy. the hall and explained that there was a I fear that each day I’m here this country secret door, and that, if I got my friend — this tiny island of freedom in the heart and came and knocked, you would open of Eurasia — is slowly being lost to a it and meet us. I did so, and dragged my tyrant waiting just to the north. best friend, Elliott Merck, down the hall On behalf of the staff of the Georgian to come see you. He didn’t believe me, President, I extend to you an invitation of course, or that the wooden hotel wall to come here to Tbilisi, though I know in front of us was a secret room. But you are quite busy with your humanitar- when I knocked, it opened, and a Secret ian efforts. Any time you have to spare, Servicemen greeted us and welcomed even a phone call or a few words would us in to shake your hand. Elliott has never mean the world not only to me but I doubted me since. We are both still think it would resonate with the people dreamers. He is now in Hollywood mak- of Georgia at a very volatile time in this ing fi lms and I am a writer. country’s history. The next day was Easter, and by luck Though it was briefl y that we met, you we received disposable cameras from and Mrs. Bush have been tremendous the Easter Bunny. We rented bikes and inspirations in my life. I hope to one day set out to fi nd you again, so we could Secret Service guys stopped us, said we graphs with you. I then explained that I “Yeah,” we said. see you again. prove the tale to our friends. We inter- could get a photograph, but we had to would have voted for you not Bill Clin- “Well there are Secret Service offi cers Thank you so much for your consid- rogated a substantial portion of the hotel let you play through the hole. We did so, ton “if I coulda voted.” up in them with sniper rifl es looking eration of my request. staff for intel on your whereabouts, again and not only did we get a picture, we got I would also like to add that, while we right at you.” Sincerely, a quite humorous scenario, looking back. several. I asked a Secret Service agent were waiting, we asked your saint of a “Wow,” we said. “Which ones.” Will Cathcart” Eventually we found a kind source who to take my photo with the president, and Secret Serviceman, who probably had not “If I told you,” he said, “I’d have to kill took pity on us and pointed towards the he kindly obliged. Moreover, the young signed on for PR with little hellions, 10,000 you.” Printed with the permission of the author. First golf course. It is there that we chased twerp I was proceeded to direct photog- questions. He fi nally said, “Look guys you “Awesome!” we said because that was published 12/4/2018 charlestonmercury. you down on our bicycles. One of your raphy until we each had several photo- see these palm trees all around us.” pretty much the coolest thing we’d ever com

Tel: (995 32) 2 45 08 08 10 Galaktion Street E-mail: [email protected] GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 SOCIETY 5 Bridging the Gaps: Health & Rights for the Key Population

Image source: Tbilisi City Hall Tbilisi City Hall Joins Campaign to Eliminate Violence against Women symbol of the fi ght against gender-based up orange in solidarity with the cause. BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE violence. Wearing a white ribbon repre- Approximately 30 municipalities in Geor- sents a personal pledge to never commit, gia have joined the central government's condone or remain silent about violence initiative to recognize the campaign, which bilisi City Hall and Tbilisi against women and girls. Within the 16 is also active on social media. A major Transport Company joined Days, there are several other notable days: component of the recognition is the effort the annual ‘16 Days of Activ- November 29: International Women’s to raise awareness of legal and other ser- Image source: afew.org.ua ism against Gender-Based Human Rights Defenders Day, December vices for victims of violence offered by Violence’ campaign to end 1: World AIDS Day, and December 5: the Government of Georgia and non- atives of different organizations BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA Tviolence against women, initiated by the International Volunteer Day for Economic governmental organizations. delivered speeches about problems United Nations. The campaign begins and Social Development. The campaign is being implemented faced by drug-addicts and discussed the on November 25, the International Day Khuntsaria made a statement to report- in accordance with the National Strategy ways to solve this critical problem within for the Elimination of Violence against ers, saying that “the Tbilisi Municipality and Action Plan for the Elimination of t the Tbilisi Marriott Hotel Georgian society. The fl aws of the Women, and ends on December 10, has joined the 16-day campaign against Domestic Violence, which were devel- on December 4, within the national psycho-social rehabilitation Human Rights Day. violence. Unfortunately, we have very oped and approved earlier this year by scope of the project ‘Bridg- system were noted. Deputy Mayor of Tbilisi Sophio Khunt- bad statistics for violence against women. the Inter-Agency Commission on Gen- ing the Gaps: Health and The project is carried out with the saria participated in a demonstration There are different forms of violence. der Equality, Women and Domestic Vio- Rights for the Key Popula- fi nancial aid of the Ministry of Foreign against gender-based violence by riding Therefore, I urge all women to raise their lence, with support from the United Ation’, the Center for Information and Affairs of the Netherlands, Dutch public public buses and talking with passengers voices and know that the State will always Nations Women's Organization (UN Counseling on Reproductive Health health NGO-AIDS Foundation East-West, and people waiting for transport. The stand beside them.” Women) and the European Union. ‘Tanadgoma’ initiated a conference with AFEW, and the local Public Union Deputy Mayor informed the bus passen- The 16-day campaign was established Together, the documents form the frame- the title: ‘Rehabilitation-Resocialization ‘Bemoni.’ The aim is to support the psy- gers on Rustaveli Avenue about the cam- in 1991 by the fi rst Women's Global Lead- work for the sectoral ministries and state of People Dependent on Psychoactive chological rehabilitation of drug-addicted paign and about related statistics. She left ership Institute, held by the Center for agencies that are involved in preventing Drugs’ individuals. The fi rst phase (September them with a gift of a small pin with an Women's Global Leadership (CWGL) at and responding to acts of violence against The six-hour conference, with govern- 2011 to December 2015) and saw the fi rst orange ribbon, the color of the campaign. Rutgers University. It has been held in women at the national level. ment bodies, local and international 24/7 rehab center launched in the village Another, similar initiative is the White Georgia for several years now, but this Accompanying Khuntsaria were the organizations in attendance, aimed to of Gremi, Kvareli Municipality. The sec- Ribbon Campaign, a global movement year is the fi rst time that government Mayor's Advisor on Gender Equality outline and consider the main issues ond phase, to last until 2021, focuses on that began in 1991, closely associated with agencies have participated in marking Issues, Nino Burdzenidze, and other related to the rehabilitation and reso- the social inclusion of drug-addicts and the 16 Days of Activism campaign. White the campaign. On November 25, the Tbi- representatives from the Tbilisi Trans- cialization of people using and depend- supporting them in future. Ribbons have become an international lisi TV tower at Mtatsminda Park was lit port Company and City Hall. ent on psychoactive drugs. Represent- Continued on page 7 GEORGIA TODAY 6 SOCIETY DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 Aghmashenebeli Ave Gets New Maple Trees

pared cooperatively by the municipality BY SAMANTHA GUTHRIE and botanical experts at the beginning of the year. Az many as 200 six-meter trees will be planted on Aghmashen- amaged catalpa trees along ebeli Avenue and I think they will dec- Aghmashenebeli Avenue orate this area well. It is also well known near the New Tifl is area that this plant is adequate for the climate are being replaced by new of Tbilisi and the existing [urban] envi- six-meter maple trees. ronment. I'm sure it will be very satis- DeputyD Mayor of Tbilisi Maia Bitadze fying for all those people who have been attended the process of planting the worried about the mistakes on this street trees. for many years," said the deputy mayor. She explained that catalpas, which Bitadze added that the damaged trees were planted on Aghmashenebeli Ave- will be sent to a nursery farm owned nue in 2011, are not appropriate for the by the municipality, where they will be urban climate, which result in their disposed of in the appropriate manner. damage. City Hall announced this replacement "Today we are replacing catalpas with several months ago. The decision was maples. It is neccessary to remedy the based on demands from the local pop- fact that this plant was incorrectly ulation. Tbilisi City Hall's Environmen- selected for the urban environment. tal Protection Service is currently car- Because of this, 180 trees were damaged rying out large-scale planting works in - they could not grow and they suffered. the capital. By the end of the year, 12,000 Maples were selected from a list pre- new plants will be planted in Tbilisi. Photo: Tbilisi City Hall Georgian Olive Oil, Tea & Whiskey to Be Exported to China BY KETEVAN KVARATSKHELIYA

s a result of negotiations with major Chinese companies, Georgian entrepreneurs have plans to export products to China, the Partnership Fund Areports. Following the success of Georgian wine exports, the billion-strong Chinese market will now have access to olive oil, tea and whiskey produced in Georgia. The offi cial agreement was orchestrated by the Partner- ship Fund and the signing ceremony took place in the Georgian Wine House in the central part of Yiwu, the Chinese province of Zhejiang. Georgian wine was fi rstly sold in stores of the Chinese wine import company Cheers Wines in September 2017 in Beijing, and is popular among locals visitors to the city. China is the third largest importer of Geor- gian wine after Russia and Ukraine. The Partnership Fund also announced a new project with Chinese partners, a new factory in Tkibuli which will produce high quality jackets for local and international Image source: imedinews.ge markets under the label of well known brands. The long-term delivery service of 25 Is Tourism in Georgia a Threat to Rural Life?

Continued from page 1 summer. Plastic bags and rubbish are struggles helped solidify a sense of to 50 kilograms sacks from China. sprawled across the grass whilst horses community, responsibility for each An increase in tourism to natural graze in the makeshift shelters. other, and a shared identity, competi- areas can always threaten its natural These businesses represent the entre- tion is beginning to challenge this com- With the organic responsibility of beauty. Hotels and guest houses are preneurship of the local residents who munity spirit. Neighbors compete to rapidly being built in villages where, are harnessing the monetary potential offer tourists the lowest prices, most a few years ago, there was very little. of incoming tourists. Rural areas in ‘authentic’ taste of Georgian life, stand- the Trading Company "HanLin" As is typical in Georgia, many of these Georgia have struggled with climate ards of comfort, and food. buildings are unregulated. Juta, a small change and poverty in recent years. If tourism in Georgia’s rural areas is village at the start of the Chauki Pass, After the collapse of the Soviet Union, correctly managed and developed, it from Alashankou. had very few visitors a few years ago. many countryside residents moved to offers a huge opportunity for locals to Now, guests are greeted with the stark bigger towns in search of a better way improve their quality of life. The mod- signs of ‘Sauna”, ‘Guesthouse’, and of life. The infl ux of tourism is helping ernization of roads and economic ‘beer, vodka, wine.’ Although amenities to sustain the economy in rural areas, potential will greatly ease the hardship in the village are wanted, it cannot be boost the income of struggling farm- of traditional life. Nonetheless, it said that the new constructions blend ers, and offer new forms of employ- remains unclear whether these projects E-mail: [email protected] into the surrounding countryside. ment. will be done with the most important Walking from Juta towards the Chauki However, many neighbors are now factor in mind: the preservation of the Tel/Fax: 86-0909-699-5859 Pass, a campsite set up at the base of not only the family who live next door, beauty of Georgia’s wilderness and the jagged peaks caters to tourists in but business competitors. While earlier traditions. GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 SOCIETY 7 An Open Letter to the President, from Etseri, Svaneti

BY TONY HANMER

ear Madame President, Congratulations. We often don’t cheer anymore when the elec- tricity comes back on. It’s Dfree of charge in Upper Svaneti, as I am sure you know, and has been for longer than the 19 years I have made Georgia my home. Free, and we’re told not to complain at the frequent, many-hour outages of the ancient system. Huh! If we want a new one, with reliability built in, it’ll come with meters for all our houses, and monthly electricity bills as well! Instead, we mostly do nothing, and hope that our appliances, our fridges and TVs and water heaters won’t be killed when the process of turning the power back on takes several tries. On. Off a few seconds or a minute later. On again. Rinse, repeat. We might unplug things when it fi rst goes off, so as to save them from those repeated jolts. If we’re rich enough, we might buy several gadg- ets to help. One is voltage stabilizers to even out the fl ow of juice, usually rated from about 1 to 5 kW, though house-level ones of 10 or more kW are possible. Another thing is a generator, powered by diesel or gasoline, for the things which really need to be on more than off, like fridges and freezers. Only if we’re a busi- ness making money hand over fi st will we get a house-rated generator, though: Those things are expensive, and thirsty for fuel too! In my case, the nearest pet- rol station is 28 km away, in Mestia. My wife and I run the only real shop in our village, the largest shop between Khaishi and Mestia. In our home/guest house we have three fridge-freezer com- binations and two separate chest freez- wanting our soap operas and talent shows after that in Svaneti, and I even met ers, as well as about seven heaters of on TV during the long winter evenings President Saakashvili twice before he about 1 kW each. AND gas for cooking but cooking and heating mostly with left Georgia. But the “free” electricity with when the power’s out, AND the wood. Farming entirely by hand, too. remains a gift horse into the mouth of obligatory monster Svan wood-burning I fi rst visited Svaneti in 1999, quite una- which one should indeed look. And as stove as a last resort, heavy enough to ware of how dangerous casual visits were for the local corruption, don’t even get have needed four men to get it into the in those bandit-ridden years. Soon after me started. house when we moved here in August that, in 2000, I had made fast friends We hope fervently that, having won 2012. with a relative of the infamous Aprasidzes the vote, you will win our hearts as well. I had already experienced two winters, and continued an average of three visits from 2007-9, living in Ushguli and teach- a year to the province, which had beck- Tony Hanmer has lived in Georgia since ing English there, and noticing how bad oned to me from afar and was my raison 1999, in Svaneti since 2007, and been a the electricity was then. Seemed that d’être in Georgia in the fi rst place. Still weekly writer for GT since early 2011. He every time it snowed (a not infrequent living in blissful ignorance of the forces runs the “Svaneti Renaissance” Facebook occurrence in an Ushguli winter), the against and for me, until I found myself group, now with over 1900 members, at power disappeared. For 5 minutes or 10 at Evgeniy and Omekhi’s funeral, asked www.facebook.com/groups/SvanetiRenais- days? Who knew? The psychological to take offi cial photos during a supra for sance/ effects were similar for any time frame, 600 people outdoors in the February He and his wife also run their own guest house because of the not knowing. We were snow. in Etseri: half in the 19th century, half in the 21st, Yes, infrastructure improved rapidly www.facebook.com/hanmer.house.svaneti Bridging the Gaps: Health & Rights for the Key Population

Continued from page 5 patients can express their emotions There is no age limit at the Gremi through drawing or ceramics. No med- Rehabilitation Center and all the services The Rehabilitation Center of Gremi, ication is used in treatment. There are are free. The only requirement that has which is focused on drug and alcohol no phones or TVs, but patients are not to be met for a patient to be accepted at addicted individuals, was launched in isolated and there is no forced treat- the Center is the desire to be cured. 2016. Since then more than 30 benefi - ment- everything happens at the request Despite a space having been allocated, ciaries have used its services. Reha- of the benefi ciary. there are no female benefi ciaries at the bilitation there is based solely on psy- The rehab is well-equipped, and reno- center as yet, thought to be related to chological treatment using a “12 step” vation of the third fl oor is planned for the social stigma, a fact also discussed method which includes art and group the near future to make a library and during the conference. therapies, meetings with a psychologist gym for the patients. There are only three day treatment (group and individual), reading litera- A rehabilitation course lasts three centers functioning in Tbilisi and the ture, watching fi lms, cultivation of land months but may be prolonged if a ben- government is planning to make improve- and more. During art therapy sessions, efi ciary wishes. ments in this sphere. GEORGIA TODAY 8 SOCIETY DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018

Politician, Author Nika Rurua Dies ika Rurua (50) died at home in Vera, a variety of jazz concerts, in his term bringing Tbilisi, December 4 following a heart international artists to Georgia's stages to play. complication. He grew up in the world of fi lming and arts, as He served as Minister of Culture his father was renowned director and artist Vakh- and Monument Protection from tang Rurua. N2009-2012, during his time doing much to add to He headed the campaign to ban images and stat- or promote Georgia's rich cultural heritage, includ- ues of the Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin in Georgia, ing beginning negotiations for Georgia's 2018 par- and was at the forefront of the removal of the Sta- ticipation in the Frankfurt Book Fair. He and his lin monument in Gori. He also spearheaded the team worked with Italian architects on the renova- foundation of Tbilisi's Soviet Occupation Museum. tion of the Bagrati Cathedral and Heroes' Square More recently, he was seen in the public eye as a roundabout, petitioned for Qvevri's inclusion on member of the UNM, fi rst as a candidate for the the UNESCO heritage list and also supported Sololaki/Mtatsminda district, a position he lost to renowned young jazz musician Beka Gochiashvili now-President-Elect Salome Zurabishvili, and this to study at the Juilliard Music Academy in New year as a backer of Zurabishvili's contender, Grigol York. He further supported a plethora of cultural Vashadze. initiatives, such as the re-introduction of the tradi- He will be buried on Thursday in Vera cemetery. tion of Blue Tablecloth printing and the holding of Rurua leaves behind two daughters and a son.

CULTURE In-Between Conditions hidi Contemporary Art Space presents a multidisciplinary exhibition project ‘In-between Conditions’ on December 7, 18:00. Fast-paced technological develop- Kment, unprecedented means of communication and overwhelming streams of information shape the new global-political and socio-cultural contours of everyday life. Parallel to these developments, the emergence of new conditions in societal life simultaneously creates unforeseen mythologies and narratives, thus unfolding unconventional ways of manipulation in social and political aspects. ‘In-between Conditions’ addresses the local con- text and questions the following: What are the conditions we exist in? What will the conditions be, wherein our daily life constantly changes? What is or could be understood as new media art in the Georgian context and beyond and which interre- lationship with the current socio-political discourse does it imply? ‘In-between Conditions’ displays 18 work contri- butions expressing cultural impulses affected by political or social shifts. In a transdisciplinary, exploratory manner, the show captures those artis- tic tendencies and streams that had been left beyond recognition or whose contextualization within Georgia has not happened yet. Artworks of the following authors will be pre- workshops and presentations will be held parallel sented: Detu Jintcharadze and Mariam Natroshvili, to the exhibition. Gio Sumbadze, Giorgi Maghradze, Jasper Fung, The show will be open for any visitor every Tues- Koka Vashakidze and Vasili Macharadze, Lado day from 15:00-20:00 and simultaneously to attend- Lomitashvili, Lado Oniani, Mamuka Japharidze, ees of Khidi musical events on Fridays and Satur- Manuchar Okrostsvaridze, Nika Machaidze, Nikoloz days (exclusively for the club audience) as well as Kapanadze, Sandro Sulaberidze, Tamar Gurgenidze, through prior arrangement. Tilda George, Tornike Qarchkha, Wato Tsereteli, Zura Jishkariani and Sandro Asatiani, InChina Col- Contact information: lective. Curators: Khatia Tchokhonelidze, Giorgi +995 577 935 032 / +995 593 750 076 / +995 Spanderashvili, Vato Urushadze. 558 900 400 The Khidi Contemporary Art Space represents or email us on following address inbetweenconditons@ a new platform, a multidisciplinary exhibition space gmail.com on the 3rd fl oor of the club. It aims to create a Supporters and partners of the project: unique junction between electronic music audi- Georgian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and ences and different artistic directions through a Sport, Tbilisi City Hall, Goethe Institute, Ilia State Univer- synthesis of novel artistic impulses. ‘In-between sity, Technopark, Creative Georgia, Center of Contem- Conditions’ is the fi rst long-term exhibition of the porary Art - Tbilisi, Georgian Moving Image & Video Art new space. Archive, GEORGIA TODAY, ARTAREA, Geolab, 9 Mta, For three months live performances, showings, Marketer.ge, On.ge

GEORGIA TODAY 10 CULTURE DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018

WHAT’S ON IN TBILISI THEATER CINEMA ROBIN HOOD PERMANENT EXHIBITION KELLER BAR Directed by Otto Bathurst Discover the State's personal fi les 36 M.Kostava Str. Cast: TaronEgerton, Jamie Foxx, of "subversive" Georgian public SHALIKASHVILI THEATER AMIRANI CINEMA Ben Mendelsohn fi gures, orders to shoot or exile, and 27 Rustaveli Ave. 36 Kostava Str. December 7 Genre: Action, Adventure other artifacts representing Soviet- TEL (+995 32) 299 99 55 LUDOFF, TADE Language: English era cultural and political repression December 7 www.kinoafi sha.ge Start time: 23:00 KRIMANCHULI Start time: 17:00 in Georgia. Ticket: 10 GEL Language: Russian Start time: 20:00 Every Wednesday ticket: 5 GEL Start time: 19:45 Ticket: 15 GEL December 7-13 LITERATURE MUSEUM December 8 Ticket: 13-19 GEL 8 Chanturia Str. SOPHIE HALLEN, December 8 THE HOUSE THAT JACK BUILT ŠPILL LULLABY Directed by Lars von Trier SUSPIRIA December 4-12 Directed by Luca Guadagnino EXHIBITION Start time: 23:00 Start time: 20:00 Christian Rive Ticket: 10 GEL Ticket: 15 GEL Cast: Matt Dillon, Bruno Ganz, Cast: Dakota Johnson, Tilda MODERN MADONNAS Uma Thurman Swinton, Doris Hick Project by Koka Vashakidze. GABRIADZE THEATER Genre: Fantasy, Horror, Mystery The series of artworks, whilst TBILISI CONCERT HALL Genre: Drama, Horror, Thriller 1 Melikishvili St. 14 Shavteli Str. Language: English Language: Russian acting as modern renditions of the TEL (+995 32) 2 99 00 99 TEL (+995 32) 298 65 93 Start time: 21:45 Start time: 22:00 unity of mother and infant - the Language: Russian Ticket: 16-19 GEL eternal Madonna, also lay bare December 8 Start time: 16:40 the struggles of one of the most December 8 RAMONA Ticket: 13-14 GEL FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE marginalized, vulnerable groups of Bu Sehirde RevazGabriadze CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD our society. presents a new concert program Directed by RevazGabriadze (Info Above) ENJOY MORTAL ENGINES GALLERY English Subtitles Directed by Christian Rive Language: English Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 Cast: Hugo Weaving, Stephen Lang, Start time: 13:15, 16:30, 19:30, 22:00 Ticket: 10-80 GEL Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Robert Sheehan Language: Russian THE NATIONAL GALLERY Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy Start time: 13:30, 22:30 11 Rustaveli Ave. SPACEHALL December 9 Ticket: 11-19 GEL Language: English TEL (+995 32) 215 73 00 2 A. Tsereteli Ave. STALINGRAD Start time: 19:30 Revaz Gabriadze BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY October 9 – January 17 (2019) Ticket: 13-14 GEL December 8 Directed by Revaz Gabriadze (Info Above) NIKO PIROSMANI’S RENEWED SEV English Subtitles Language: English EXHIBITION FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE Start time: 19:00 Start time: 20:00 CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD Start time: 22:15 Ticket: 25-50 GEL Ticket: 20, 30 GEL Directed by David Yates Ticket: 16-19 GEL October 10 – October 5 (2019) Cast: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine EXHIBITION December 13 MUSEUM Waterston, DanFogler MASTERS OF GEORGIAN ART CAFE MZIURI Animated documentary fi lm Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy Paintings of Kirill Zdanevich, Mziuri Park REZO Language: Russian GEORGIAN NATIONAL Shalva Kikodze, Ketevan Directed by Leo Gabriadze Start time: 22:20 MUSEUM SIMON JANASHIA Magalashvili and Elene Akhvlediani December 9 Start time: 20:00 Ticket: 12-14 GEL MUSEUM together with Lado Gudiashvili's SAKVIRAO Ticket: 15 GEL 3 Rustaveli Ave. and David Kakabadze, giving Entertainment program for BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY TEL (+995 32) 299 80 22, 293 48 21 a comprehensive picture of children MUSIC AND DRAMA www.museum.ge STATE THEATER Directed by Bryan Singer the diversity and aesthetics of Start time: 12:00 Cast: Rami Malek, Joseph Mazzello, Georgian Art. Ticket: 13 GEL 182 Agmashenebeli Ave. Exhibitions: TEL (+995 32) 234 80 90 Mike Myers Genre: Biography, Drama, Music GEORGIAN COSTUME AND KHIDI ART HOUSE WEAPONRY OF THE 18TH-20TH Language: Russian V.Bagrationi Bridge, Right 18 Gudiashvili Str. December 11 CENTURIES WELCOME TO GEORGIA Start time: 13:40 Embankment A musical, theatrical play and Ticket: 14 GEL NUMISMATIC TREASURY December 9 romantic comedy telling a story December 9 IAN MAKSIN’S MAGIC CAVEA GALLERY STONE AGE GEORGIA TESSERACT about Georgia and its people by CELLO NIGHT 2/4 Rustaveli Ave. ARCHEOLOGICAL TREASURE presents a series of creative combining song, dance, culture, Start time: 21:00 TEL (+995 32) 200 70 07 NEW LIFE TO THE ORIENTAL performances traditions, history, national Ticket: 40 GEL costumes and local cuisine. COLLECTIONS ACT 1: Masterclass Spotlight on Musical Every Wednesday ticket: 8 GEL Actress and Ballerina- Language: English, some Georgian December 7-13 IOSEB GRISHASHVILI Natia Bunturi- The professional TBILISI STATE With English subtitles TBILISI HISTORY MUSEUM obstacles of an actress CONSERVATOIRE Start time: 20:00 THE NUTCRACKER AND THE - KARVASLA ACT 2: Music experiment electro- 8 Griboedov St. Ticket: 50-80 GEL FOUR REALMS 8 Sioni St. acoustic live experiment Phonothek TEL (+995 32) 2 93 46 24 Directed by Lasse Hallström, Joe TEL (+995 32) 298 22 81 & Hanker MOVEMENT THEATER Johnston Start time: 20:00 December 10 182 Aghmashenebeli Ave. Cast: Mackenzie Foy, Keira November 29 – January 20 Ticket: 20 GEL CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT TEL (+995) 598 19 29 36 Knightley, Morgan Freeman Georgian National Museum in Participants: John Thwaites (piano), MUSIC Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy the framework of the Project Louise Lansdown (viola), Pavel “Contemporary Art Gallery” December 7, 13 Language: English Fischer (violin), Royal Birmingham presents ASTIGMATISTS Start time: 19:45 SOUNDS OF GEORGIA Conservatoire (UK) Language: Russian SOLO EXHIBITION OF LIA Directed by Ioseb Bakuradze Program: Schubert, Britten, Start time: 20:00 Start time: 17:15 BAGRATIONI December 7, 12, 13 Martinu, Franck, Bruch Ticket: 10-15 GEL Ticket: 14-19 GEL A MAD TEA-PARTY Mini concerts in the cozy Start time: 18:00 atmosphere of Old Tbilisi, a mix MORTAL ENGINES MUSEUM OF SOVIET Ticket: 10 GEL December 8, 9 of traditional Georgian music IGGI (Info Above) OCCUPATION featuring different genres: folklore, Directed by Kakha Bakuradze Language: English 4 Rustaveli Ave. December 13 Start time: 20:00 Start time: 11:45, 22:30 TEL (+995 32) 2 99 80 22, 2 93 48 21 a capella, guitar, as well as new DAVID ALADASHVILI- PIANO Ticket: 10 GEL Ticket: 10-19 GEL www.museum.ge Georgian pop and city songs. Works by Start time: 17:00 Johann Sebastian Bach, Tickets: 23 GEL Ludwig van Beethoven, Venue: December 7: Frederic Chopin, New Tifl is, 9 Agmashenebeli Ave., Franz Liszt, Wine bar ‘Wine Station’; Robert Schumann, Venue: December 12: Dato Evgenidze (world premier) 16 G. Kikodze Str., Café ‘Ezo’; Start time: 19:30 Venue: December 13: Ticket: 5-35 GEL Europe Sq., 2 D. Megreli Str., Hotel "Nata", Terrace DJANSUG KAKHIDE TBILISI UNDER WHEEL CENTER FOR MUSIC & Mtatsminda Park CULTURE 123 aAgmashenebeli Ave. December 7 CJ BORIKA December 8 Giga Papaskiri- 22:15 - 23:00 CONCERT OF SYMPHONIC CjBorika- 23:00 - 00:00 MUSIC Rompasso- 00:00 - 00:30 Program: Symphony No.4 by Tornike Okriashvili- 00:30 - 01:10 Ludwig van Beethoven, Start time: 22:00 Nanie written by Johannes Brahms, Te Deum written for mixed choir, U-BAHN soloists, symphony orchestra and 164 Agmashenebeli Ave. organ by Anton Bruckner, The performers: Tbilisi Symphony December 7 Orchestra, Georgian State Choir The university of Georgia's student and opera singers – Marika club UG universal and event group Machitidze, Nutsa Zakaidze, PARGEOTY presents: Irakli Murjikneli and Gocha 70-90s PARTY IN TBILISI Datusani. Start time: 22:00 Start time: 19:30 Ticket: 15 GEL Ticket: 10-30 GEL GEORGIA TODAY DECEMBER 7 - 10, 2018 CULTURE 11 Parade: a Georgian Film in the Truest Sense

mutter and soon shake their head and REVIEW BY RYAN SHERMAN shuffl e on. Yet any viewer hoping for a segue into the ills of globalization or the assault on t is raining outside as a man dances cultural heritage will be disappointed in fi relight with a prostitute. It’s with ‘Parade.’ This is a fi lm that avoids getting cold. He tells her she’s moralizing and navigates around the beautiful and pulls her close, say- easy reservoirs of sentiment and nation- ing he hasn’t danced since his teen- alism. We watch, full of confl ict ourselves, ageI son was born. He swoons. His friends as a man reluctantly experiences the fi rst will make fun of him in the morning. stirrings of intimacy in a decade as he This is a scene from Nino Zhvania’s slowly dances with an incidental woman. 2018 fi lm ‘Parade,’ which opened Tbilisi’s He describes it as his swan song the next 19th Film Festival opened Monday even- day. Melodrama deconstructs itself. ing at Amirani Cinema, featuring the This is the story of three childhood special appearance of the Italian Ambas- friends, long-separated, who grew up in sador, and the entire cast taking to the a world that failed around them. Their stage before its screening to a packed lives emerge for us in both subtle and auditorium. startling glimpses: prison-hardened Tazo If I was to tell you ‘Parade’ portrays the takes a beating for the swindling Trulaila. longing of the human spirit via a trio of Filthy stories are forthcoming, ending upper-middle aged, foul-mouthed Geor- with maxims such as, “grandmothers gian men in the company of prostitutes are off-limits.” Our heroes are unable to around a fi re, the only phrase that will remember what their grandfathers would come to mind is “oh brother.” So instead, yell, as they drive stubborn sheep from I will only say this is a fi lm you must see. an abandoned building where they’ve It is one that will confound every Geor- taken shelter from the rain. gian stereotype you harbor. These are Georgian men who have Image source: tiff.net The fi lm opens with Tazo, a frustrated grown up in Georgia but are no longer In the quixotic character Trulaila, we Hemingway simply wrote about a big reader, see what you will. painter, on at Tbilisi’s Dry Bridge fl ea sure they know what that means. One a sense these friends are the only people fi sh. "There isn't any symbolism. The ‘Parade’ is a Georgian fi lm in the truest market, angry with shame when his son former prisoner, one a failing actor, and he has never cheated. In Guram, we see sea is the sea. The old man is the old sense. Far from catering to European shows up, sent by his mother and asking one sells bric-a-brac to Europeans. In a the storm of frustration under the cool man,” he said. “The boy is a boy and the fi lm critics and festival audiences, one for money for a class excursion. Along scene utterly stereotypical yet magnifi - and proud exterior of an ex-convict. And fi sh is a fi sh.” We should also hesitate is captivated by a dawning awareness with the kitchy paintings he has grown cently original, the trio ends up in a res- if the adaptation of aging Georgian men before seeing symbolism in ‘Parade.’ We that only Georgians will fully grasp its to despise, Tazo hawks a tray of kantsi, taurant drinking heavily and eating to art house should raise any misgivings, watch the three fl ee a restaurant and pathos and confl icts. Non-Georgians will the traditional goat horn drinking vessel Khinkali and discover in each other what Tezo himself beats us all to them: “such take refuge in an obscene parade pass- understand Georgia better while per- for wine, a must-get for any souvenir- they had not even realized they had lost fi lms are dickheads walking back and ing. With a fi t of coughing, one staggers ceiving how much they don't know. savvy visitor. We cringe as he knocks so long ago. Sounds saccharine? If you forth on a railroad track,” he says, a line into a stable and collapses, just as a Expats will be left grappling with ques- down his prices in 5 Lari chunks for think so, it is only because you haven’t at which point the entire audience at the beautiful horse is lead out. “It’s getting tions like, “Who the hell are we to think unimpressed European tourists who yet seen ‘Parade.’ cinema erupted in applause. cold,” Tezo remarks. I’ll let you, dear we know so much about Georgia?” 19th Tbilisi Int’l Film Festival, December 3-9 Lithuanian fi lmmaker Raimundas Ban- of the Russian Empire. Few fi lms were truly a fascinating work from visual, aes- ionis, Nima Javidi, Archil Kikodze, Kanako shot during the Soviet rule uncovering thetic and musical perspectives, simul- Hayashi, and Celine Nusse. that period, yet since then this theme got taneously uncovering intimate and inter- This year’s Tbilisi Film Festival, besides forgotten and almost none of the direc- esting conversations about love.” presenting a diverse program of movie tors thought about bringing it up again. The festival also featured ‘Horizon’ by screenings, offers the audience inspiring It is crucial to me as a director to fulfi ll Georgian director Tinatin Kajrishvili. The workshops as well as meetings with my main mission and show the reality to director’s second feature had a World renowned international directors. The the public,” Loznitsa said. Premiere at the Berlin International Film guest of honor at the festival is British Another prize of honor went to distin- Festival and on December 5, it was screened fi lmmaker Peter Greenaway, creator of guished Georgian fi lm director Giorgi for the fi rst time in Tbilisi. At the 10th the fi lms ‘The Cook, the Thief, his Wife Shengelaia whose fi lm ‘Alaverdoba’ was anniversary of the Santa Fe Independent and her Lover,’ ‘8 ½ Women,’ and ‘Pros- screened. Alavedroba (1962) was the fi rst Film Festival, the fi lm claimed the title of pero's Books.’ Greenaway held a free-to- work of the iconic Georgian fi lmmaker Best Narrative Film. The premier in Tbi- attend master class on December 7 at the and a feature-documentary fi lm based on lisi was attended by the director, cast and headquarters of TBC Bank. the same-titled novel by Guram Rcheul- entire crew, who after the screening Yet another celebrated festival guest is ishvili, where the main character stands answered the audience’s questions. Hori- Ukrainian fi lmmaker Sergei Loznitsa whose against distorted traditions. zon focuses on the strain in the relation- Photo by Ryan Sherman fi lms were screened in the special section GEORGIA TODAY talked to Bacho ship of a couple once deeply in love and Rohrwache featuring Georgian actor Director in Focus. The director’s latest Odisharia, a well-known Georgian fi lm shows how the two undergo the process BY LIKA CHIGALDZE Luka Chikovani in one of the leading movie ‘Donbass’ was presented at Amirani critic, who attended and watched a num- of separation. roles. Cinema on December 5. The fi lm unveils ber of movies within the festival. The festival closes on December 9 with On December 8, the winners of Silver the degradation of post-Soviet society, “The atmosphere at the festival venue the premier of ‘The Favorite’ (2018) by ne of Georgia’s favorite Prometheus for the best directing and showcasing the war-torn separatist regions is great and it is a good fact that many Yorgos Lanthimos, featuring famous stars cultural events, the Tbilisi Golden Prometheus for the best fi lm will of the Donbass. The fi lm, which was banned people in Tbilisi unite not to protest Olivia Colman, Emma Stone and Rachel International Film Festival, be revealed. In the National Competition, from Russian cinemas, won the ‘Un Cer- something but to watch movies. The Tbi- Weisz in the leading roles. opened in the capital of Georgian directors will be awarded in tain Regard’ award for Best Director at lisi International Film Festival is essential The Tbilisi International Film Festival Georgia to bring together three categories: feature, documentary Cannes and was selected as the Ukrainian for Georgia’s cultural life, and we should goes back to the 2000s. The festival was OGeorgian and foreign fi lmmakers, critics and short fi lms. entry for the Best Foreign Language Film expand it and establish alternative festi- born within a larger art festival frame- and fi lm enthusiasts of all ages. The main Besides the offi cial awards of the festi- at the 91st Academy Awards. vals. Through developing and perfecting work, with numerous supporters and theme of this year's Tbilisi Film Festival, val, last year the EU established a special After the screening of Donbass at Ami- the existing festival, the event will become sponsors. Later, in 2002, the festival trans- the 19th edition, is “Literature.” prize: the EU Human Rights in Film Award. rani Cinema, the Director was awarded of high importance not only for our coun- formed into a separate event and has The opening ceremony kicked off with This will be awarded to one of the seven a special prize, the Prometheus of Honor. try but at an international level,” he said. gradually expanded over the years. festival director Gaga Chkheidze telling fi lms that depict Human Rights, selected During his visit, the fi lmmaker once again “Among the competing fi lms I would The mission of the festival is to present the audience about the presented sec- from across the festival in order to mark stressed that Ukraine and Georgia have single out ‘Boys Cry,’ an Italian drama new works of high artistic value made in tions and reminding them to expect the 70th anniversary of the Universal a common enemy: Russia, noting that fi lm directed by Damiano and Fabio Georgia and worldwide to the public, as numerous important screenings and Declaration of Human rights. both countries feel the same about their D'Innocenzo. The fi lm mirrors the Italian well as introduce new trends in world interesting meetings within the frames ‘Georgian Panorama’ will be judged by occupied territories and the tense situa- ghetto life and how the criminal world cinema to society and support the devel- of the festival. The opening was attended Erika and Ulrich Gregor, Co-founders of tion in the regions. has swallowed society. The fi lm does not opment of the Georgian cinema industry. by Italian Ambassador in Georgia Anto- Arsenal, the German Institute for Film “Our territory is still occupied by Rus- romanticize the criminal world, as usu- Currently, the festival is considered one nio Enrico Bartoli since the focus coun- and Video Art and Berlin Film Festival sia; the war has lasted almost fi ve years. ally happens in crime movies, but on the of the major cultural events attracting try of this year is Italy. Numerous Ital- International Forum of New Cinema, and We, Ukrainians and Georgians understand contrary portrays becoming a gangster both a local and foreign audience as well ian fi lms are being showcased, among Spanish fi lm critic Eva Peydró. The inter- each other very well, and we both know as a tragedy. I was also impressed by the as bringing famous directors to the cap- them ‘Happy as Lazzaro’ by Alice national Competition jury comprises what it is like to live under the pressure fi lm ‘Our Time’ by Carlos Reygadas. It is ital of Georgia.

PUBLISHER & GM Journalists: Website Manager/Editor: ADDRESS Reproducing material, photos George Sharashidze Tony Hanmer, Zaza Jgarkava, Katie Ruth Davies 1 Melikishvili Str. and advertisements without Maka Bibilashvili, Tbilisi, 0179, Georgia prior editorial permission is COMMERCIAL Dimitri Dolaberidze, Layout: strictly forbidden. DEPARTMENT Vazha Tavberidze, Misha Mchedlishvili Tel.: +995 32 229 59 19 The author is responsible for Commercial Director: Nugzar B. Ruhadze, E: [email protected] all material. Rights of authors Webmaster: Iva Merabishvili Thea Morrison, F: GeorgiaToday are preserved. The newspaper Sergey Gevenov Marketing Manager: Samantha Guthrie, is registered in Mtatsminda Anuka Poladishvili Amy Jones, Circulation Managers: ADVERTISING & district court. Ana Dumbadze David Kerdikashvili, SUBSCRIPTION EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT: David Djandjgava +995 597 97 21 12 GEORGIA TODAY Editor-In-Chief: Photographer: E-mail: Reg. # 06/4-309 Katie Ruth Davies Irakli Dolidze [email protected] BBATUMIATUMI VVIEWIEW

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