Jim Shvante (marili svanets)

This vivid ethnographic study about a forgotten corner of the Caucasus, cut off from the world by mountains, was made by Mikhail Kalatozov, inspired by the works of the playwright and essayist Sergey Tretyakov. Ancient ceremonies and rituals, a harsh environment, poverty, and a salt shortage were a part of the everyday life of the mountain dwellers, who often perished as they travelled to the lowlands in search of a better livelihood. (Ji.hlava International Documentary Film Festival)