This is the first Croatian film I ever saw and I am really impressed. IZA STAKLA (BEHIND THE GLASS) was presented in the competition of the 43rd Karlovy Vary International Film festival (July 4-12, 2008). Problems which have been brewing for years for successful 35-year-old architect Nikola Jeren come to a head in the space of five days. A life of lies and emotional turmoil has taken its toll on the man, he has no self-respect and doesn't know what he really wants. His long-term mistress Ana, a work colleague, is weary from all the years they've had to conceal their relationship. She wants him to get divorce. His wife Maja, the mother of Nikola's 8-year-old daughter, is also pressing him to finally come to a decision. Nikola is imprisoned in a situation which cannot be resolved: whatever he does, he'll only hurt everyone he ever loved even more. Can something decide for us, something we're no longer used to expecting in life - a tragic coincidence ? Director Zrinko Ogresta doesn't judge the characters in his intimate psychological drama, but he present a very sensitive yet harsh view of their weaknesses. At the same time, however, he poses a vital question: to what extent are we responsible masters of our own destiny and thus also architects of the world we inhabit ? Brilliant directing, excellent acting and great camera-work !
