Conference

Natalia lives as a nun far away from the capital. She is visiting Moscow for a commemoration of the more than 170 people who died when Chechen attackers took over the Dubrovka Theater in one of the biggest acts of terror in Europe since the turn of the century. A small group of survivors gather for what they are forced to call a conference, not a memorial service. As the participants share their experiences, we understand the consequences of fear. At the core of the story, we find Natalia and her family.

Conference is a stylistically tight film, where simple means are used effectively to create visually striking images. Most of the film takes place in the theater. Faceless mannequins represent the absent ones. The silences in the soundtrack speak volumes. Chronological testimonies give a balanced and sober insight into the dramatic events. With unassuming but beautiful aesthetics, one of the most promising young Russian filmmakers depicts a badly handled attack.

This film was chosen by Norwegian film critic Håkon Tveit.