Exploring "How to Divorce During the War" at Sundance

New Europe Film Sales has acquired "How to Divorce During the War," the third feature by Lithuanian director Andrius Blaževicius, which is set to premiere in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the Sundance Film Festival. The film is described as a "sharp, emotionally resonant drama laced with irony," portraying a Europe grappling with the complexities of fear, denial, solidarity, and fatigue.

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Set in Vilnius in 2022, the narrative follows Marija, a high-flying executive, who initiates a conversation about divorce with her husband Vytas just one day before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia. This timing forces the couple to navigate their separation amidst the backdrop of a refugee crisis and personal mid-life challenges. The film juxtaposes domestic turmoil with the broader chaos of war, revealing the hidden violence and absurdity of their situation.

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The film features a talented creative team, including director of photography Narvydas Naujalis, editor Anna Johnson Ryndová, production designer Greta Vileikyte, and composer Jakub Rataj. It is produced by Marija Razgute of M-Films (Lithuania), with co-producers Red Lion (Luxembourg), Feline Films (Ireland), and Bionaut (Czech Republic). Blaževicius has previously gained recognition for his works "The Saint" and "Runner," showcased at prestigious film festivals such as Warsaw, Busan, and Karlovy Vary.

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Marcin Luczaj, head of acquisitions at New Europe, expressed admiration for Blaževicius's vision, highlighting the film's unique blend of intimate relationship drama and societal tension. He noted that it strikes a "rare tonal balance: emotionally raw yet sharply observant, contemporary yet universally relatable, tragic yet often darkly comedic."

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While the film has garnered attention for its innovative storytelling, some critics may argue that the juxtaposition of personal and political crises could trivialize the experiences of those affected by the war. However, specific dissenting viewpoints have not been prominently featured in the current discourse surrounding the film.

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As "How to Divorce During the War" prepares for its world premiere at Sundance, it joins a competitive slate that includes other notable films such as Hlynur Pálmason’s "The Love That Remains" from Iceland and Laszlo Nemes’ "Orphan" from Hungary, both contenders for the international feature film Oscar.

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• “New Europe’s head of acquisitions, Marcin Luczaj, said in a statement: “We’ve been struck and impressed with Andrius’ vision and the universe, which resonated with us closely.” — Marcin Luczaj, Head of Acquisitions, New Europe Film Sales.

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