TIRANA, March 31 – The Albanian film “Burri i Shtëpisë” [Man of the House], directed by Andamion Murataj, received a special award at the Bari International Film and Television Festival, “Bif&st.”

The festival jury highlighted the difficulty of choosing among many outstanding female performances. They praised Drita Kaba Karaga’s portrayal as both deep and compelling. The jury noted her ability to depict a complex character with disarming simplicity. Her role shows a life lived as a man for years, until a surge of maternal feeling disrupts that fragile balance.

“Burri i Shtëpisë” earned recognition as one of the most distinctive films of the 17th edition of the festival. Bif&st remains a major cinematic event in the Mediterranean region, attracting international attention for both emerging and established talent.

Murataj expressed joy at the recognition, noting a personal connection to Bari 35 years after arriving on the ship “Vlora.” The film explores the life of a strong woman navigating the shifting realities of modern Albanian society. Murataj specifically cast Drita Kaba Karaga from North Macedonia to bring Franit’s character to life, citing her extraordinary physical and psychological skills and high interpretive mastery.

The award emphasizes the growing recognition of Albanian cinema on international stages. “Burri i Shtëpisë” continues to draw attention for its storytelling, performances, and the director’s sensitive vision of social change.

/a.p./