Watch Modra

Modra is an independent Canadian movie from 2010 directed by Ingrid Veninger. It tells the story of Lina, a young girl of Slovak origin who lives in Toronto. When she is facing hard times in her life, she decides to go and visit her estranged grandmother in Slovakia. Her only companion on this journey is Leco, her schoolmate and friend.

The movie portrays the universal theme of finding one's identity and place in the world. Lina is a typical modern teenager in Canada, living in a fast-paced and multicultural environment. She is struggling with her personal and family issues, her feelings for Leco, and her ambitions to become an artist. Her trip to Slovakia is intended to be a break from all this and a chance to reconnect with her roots and heritage.

However, Lina soon realizes that Slovakia is not the idyllic land of her imagination. Her grandmother's village, Modra, is a small and isolated community with different customs and ways of life. Moreover, Lina feels more like a tourist than a local, as she doesn't speak the language and knows nothing about the traditions. Her grandmother is not very welcoming either, and Lina is left alone most of the time, wandering through the streets and fields.

Despite the cultural shock and the distance from home, Lina starts to see the beauty of Modra and its people. She learns to appreciate the simplicity of life there, the strong family ties, and the respect for the elders. She also discovers her Slovakian cousins, who are closer to her age and share similar interests. These relationships bring more joy and meaning to her stay in Modra and open up new horizons for her.

Leco, on the other hand, has a different experience in Slovakia. As a black teenager from Canada, he stands out in Modra and faces prejudices and discrimination from some locals. He also has his own agenda, as he wants to find his Slovakian father whom he's never met. Leco's journey is more challenging and uncertain than Lina's, but it also leads him to new discoveries and personal growth.

The movie is filmed in a naturalistic style, with hand-held cameras and real locations. The actors are mostly non-professional, including Hallie Switzer (Lina), who co-wrote the screenplay with Veninger. Switzer delivers a convincing and nuanced performance as a confused and curious teenager who struggles with her emotions and expectations. Hugh Mater (Leco) brings his own charm and charisma to the role, as he balances between humor and drama. The supporting cast, especially the Slovakian actors, adds authenticity and depth to the story.

Modra is an intimate and heartfelt movie that captures the essence of adolescence, cultural identity, and intergenerational relationships. It portrays Slovakia as a complex and diverse country, with its own challenges and beauties. The movie also reflects the director's personal connection to the subject matter, as Veninger's mother is Slovakian and she herself has traveled to Modra, where the movie was partially shot.

Overall, Modra is a gem of independent cinema that deserves wider recognition and appreciation. It celebrates the human spirit and the power of travel and discovery.