Watch The Marathon Family

The Marathon Family is a 1982 Yugoslavian comedy film directed by Slobodan Sijan. The film has become a cult classic in the Balkans and is considered one of the greatest comedies made in the region. The movie tells the story of the Petrić family, a chaotic and dysfunctional family living in Belgrade during the 1980s. The movie starts off with the patriarch of the family, Đura (Pavle Vuisić), a former marathon runner, who is now running a funeral home. His wife Zdenka (Ana Karić) wants him to retire, but Đura is afraid of losing his sense of purpose. The couple has three adult children, Jelena (Mirjana Karanović) who is a political activist, Mirko (Bogdan Diklić) who is an aspiring filmmaker, and Djuro (Danilo 'Bata' Stojković), who is a skilled electrician but lacks ambition.

The story follows the family as they deal with various issues such as financial problems, romantic entanglements, and personal conflicts. Mirko's dream of making a film drives him into debt, while Jelena is involved in a relationship with a married man which causes her family distress and humiliation. Djuro is unable to find work as an electrician and becomes depressed.

As the family's problems escalate, so do the comedic situations. The film's humor is based on exaggerations and caricatures of Yugoslav stereotypes, including the bureaucratic inefficiencies, political dogmas, and social and economic tensions of the time. The struggle between the desire to remain connected as a family and the need to gain personal independence creates a relatable portrayal of family dynamics.

The Marathon Family uses clever wordplay, slapstick humor, and satire to create a unique blend of comedy that has been embraced by audiences in the Balkans. The script is witty and well-written, capturing the essence of the Yugoslavian society during the 1980s.

The film received numerous awards and nominations, including Best Screenplay at the Cannes Film Festival in 1983, and is considered one of the best films to have ever come out of Yugoslavia. The excellent performances by the actors and the clever writing ensure that The Marathon Family remains an enjoyable and timeless comedy.

In conclusion, The Marathon Family is a must-watch for anyone interested in Yugoslavian cinema, Balkan culture, or just looking for a well-written comedy that will keep them entertained from start to finish. The film's cultural relevance and social commentary make it stand out as a unique piece of art that has aged well, even after almost four decades.