Dites à mes amis que je suis mort
Nino Kirtadzé
2003 - 87 min - Beta numérique - Couleur - France

We are in western Georgia. Here, according to custom, the dead is not separated from the living. People involve them in their family life, talk to them and seek their advice. They protect the dead and they hope the dead will protect them. Death isn’t a taboo here. People die surrounded by their family and loved ones. Everyone knows that when they die, the family will continue to take care of them and make sure that "the deceased has everything he needs and is in good health". Tsotne, dressed in his best suit is ready now to "welcome his guests". His family and his neighbours are with him, to help them with the ceremony: "Everything has to be properly done". The condolences ceremony starts at eight o'clock in the evening...
In this surrealistic setting, comedy blends with deep sadness and love of life with the mystery of death. They are deeply and intimately entwined with each other. It’s as if there is no boundary between them and as if life is celebrating its victory over death.
Available in 63 min.