The feature film “Man of the House”, written and directed by Andamion Murataj, will represent Albania at the 2025 Sarajevo Film Festival.

During an interview at RTSH 24, director Murataj and actress Alesia Ruçi shared their emotions and the challenges faced during the film’s production.

Murataj revealed that casting the lead actress, who plays Zana (Alesia Ruçi), was highly demanding. He pointed out that the actress needed not only to act well but also to fully embody the character.

He said, “In my films, I follow a clear audition process with young actors. Finding talented children remains challenging. Albania surprised me again, as with my previous film. I auditioned 1,200 students across Tirana’s schools. The goal was to find someone meeting psycho-physical requirements who could carry a major transformation. Being a good actor alone does not suffice”.

At one point, Murataj felt close to giving up. He struggled to find a 9-year-old girl capable of transitioning convincingly from child to pre-adolescent.

While working on a project in Palma de Mallorca, he saw an online photo of a smiling girl with braids. The image showed strong character presence. After much effort, he found the people who posted the photo. Upon meeting, her calm nature stood out. Murataj also considered her father and aunt since he needed someone with a similar spirit. When challenged, the girl lit up with energy. Murataj recalled thinking, “This is the girl I need”.

The film’s selection for international festivals marks a significant achievement. This success belongs not only to the director and actors who brought the story to life but also to Albania itself.

The director shared, “Our world premiere is set for August 19. It was a tough battle, but our themes resonate well. The festival covers Southeastern Europe entirely. In a way, we compete with colleagues’ works. Deciding took time because we declined some festivals. The film was selected in Italy and France, but we are glad to start with Sarajevo. Invitations also came from India. Sarajevo suited this film’s profile”.

Murataj explained that the journey to festivals typically lasts about a year. Festivals act as trampolines, launching films to broader audiences and bringing new opportunities. He added, “After festivals, I received offers regarding Alesia for other films”.

Alesia Ruçi shared her experience entering the role of Zana. The character is fragile and experiences many emotions in a short time.

She said, “My role is beautiful and unique. I had to portray many emotions. I felt sadness when my grandfather died and joy when playing with friends. Since I love my grandfather in real life, I imagined him as the character’s grandfather. I learned acting habits. It was not hard. I immersed myself as if my grandfather really died”.

She emphasized the importance of being worthy within an extraordinary cast. Despite being sick during a terrace scene, she calmed herself and kept acting. “I couldn’t leave the film unfinished,” she concluded.

/a.p./