Tangerines
War in Abkhazia, 1992. An Estonian man Ivo has stayed behind to harvest his crops of tangerines. In a bloody conflict at his door, a wounded man is left behind, and Ivo is forced to take him in.
Dialogues from Movie Tangerines
A Moment of Humanity, Reelive
Why do we hate each other? I don’t even know you.
You are right. I don't know you either.
I lost everything in this war. Only my tangerines survived.
Tangerines? You think they matter?
They remind me of life before. They are a piece of home.
Home? This war took everything from us.
Yet here we are, alive and talking.
Maybe talking is all we have left.
I’ll share my tangerines with you.
You would share something so precious with me?
Why hold on to it when we can share a moment of peace?
Shared Regrets, Reelive
Do you regret fighting?
Every single day.
I never wanted this life.
What if we had met under different circumstances?
Maybe we could have been friends.
It’s tragic how war turns life into a battlefield.
And the worst part is all the innocence lost.
Innocence is a rare commodity in times like these.
You can’t buy it back, can you?
No, you can only hope to find it again one day.
Hope Amidst Suffering, Reelive
Do you still believe in peace?
Sometimes, it's hard to hold onto.
How can we heal this broken land?
By starting with ourselves.
And what about those we’ve lost?
We remember them, we carry their memory.
It’s the little things that matter.
Like sharing a meal, or a tangerine.
Exactly. Those small acts keep us human.
Then let’s stay human together.
The Fragility of Life, Reelive
Life is fragile, Margus.
It is. We take so much for granted.
What would you do differently?
I would cherish every moment.
You think we have time for that now?
We must find a way, even in this chaos.
I want to remember this moment.
Then let’s create more moments worth remembering.
Together, despite everything?
Yes, despite everything.
Understanding Through Conflict, Reelive
How did we get here?
Different stories, same pain.
Is this what they wanted us to become?
They thrive on our hatred.
And we play right into their hands.
Maybe it’s time to choose differently.
Could we even do that?
If we try, anything is possible.
Then let’s try.
For the sake of our lives.
For the lives we’ve lost.
A Small Act of Friendship, Reelive
Here, take some tangerines.
You would do that for me?
Yes, this is what humanity looks like.
It’s strange how a fruit can mean so much.
It’s not the fruit, it’s the act.
A connection, however brief.
Exactly. A moment where we can just be.
I hold this moment dear.
As do I.
Then let’s not forget it.
Attempts at Forgiveness, Reelive
Can we truly forgive?
It’s hard to let go of pain.
Especially when it’s so deep.
Yet, holding onto it only strangles us.
It can be a poison.
What if we try?
Try to forgive?
Yes, together.
I will try for you.
And I for you.
Beneath the Surface, Reelive
What do you see when you look in the mirror?
A soldier… a weapon.
That’s not all you are.
Is there anything else left?
There’s a man… somewhere beneath.
Can we find him again?
We have to, for our sake.
Is there hope left?
Hope exists as long as we breathe.
Then let us breathe together.
Fatherhood and Sacrifice, Reelive
I have a son.
What kind of world will he inherit?
I fear for him every day.
We must strive to make it better.
That’s my hope too.
What do you want him to remember about you?
That I loved him fiercely.
And that I fought for his future.
I wish to be more than just a soldier.
Then let’s make that happen.
Echoes of Laughter, Reelive
Remember when you stole my oranges as a kid?
You always remind me!
I was furious, but it’s funny now.
You were a terrible shot.
At least I tried!
Those were simpler times.
Yes, before all this.
Before we lost ourselves.
But we can find our way back.
Through laughter and memories.
Finding Strength in Unity, Reelive
We are stronger together.
What if we face them there?
Together, we can face anything.
You’d stand by me?
As long as it takes.
Then let’s not falter.
In unity, there’s power.
And hope.
And a chance for peace.
So we fight for each other.
Love Beyond War, Reelive
I loved someone once.
Me too. She’s gone now.
War stole her from me.
It took my family.
The pain is unbearable.
Yet, we hold onto their memories.
Their love remains within us.
And that can never be taken.
Out of love, we find strength.
A reminder of why we fight.
Emergence Through Conflict, Reelive
This war cannot define me.
We can emerge stronger.
It starts with letting go.
And remembering who we are.
We will turn this page together.
With hope, we’ll build anew.
One step at a time.
I won’t walk this alone.
Neither will I.
Let’s fight for that peace.
Quotes from Movie Tangerines
War is hell, and the fruits of evil come from it. We need to preserve our humanity even amid chaos.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Sibling, what is this war fighting for? Every day we bury another friend.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
There is a bitter sweetness in life. We must hold onto the sweetness.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
We do not choose the times we live in. We only choose how we live in them.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Sometimes, to grow a crop of hope, you must tend to the weeds.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
When there's life, there's a chance for peace.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Keeping the hearth warm can lead to healing wounds.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
True bravery is not the absence of fear, but acting despite it.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
The simple pleasures of life are the ones that carry us through.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
A wound can heal, but the scars can tell a lifetime of stories.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
We must share our pain, for it is only through shared suffering that we find solace.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Why do we fight for territory when our hearts have no borders?
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
To plant seeds of hope, one must be willing to nurture them amidst the chaos.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Love is the bravest act of all, especially in times of strife.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Every tree must endure storms to bear fruit.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Change is painful, but it often brings about the growth we need.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
A home is not just a place, it’s the warmth of those who dwell within.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
We cannot forget the lives lost, for they are the true cost of war.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
What is life without compassion? A barren field with no harvest.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Every person carries a story; let us weave our tales together.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
In the face of adversity, what you nurture will determine who you become.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
Tomorrow is unwritten, and the ink is ours to choose.
Keenan
Tangerines, Reelive
Even the hardest of hearts can be softened with a little kindness.
Ivo
Tangerines, Reelive
There is grace in vulnerability; it reminds us that we are all human.
Keenan
Tangerines, ReeliveMemorable Scenes from Movie Tangerines
The Arrival of the Soldiers
In a quiet village, Ivo, a simple farmer, witnesses soldiers entering the area as the civil war escalates. The tension is palpable, and the everyday life of the villagers is shattered. The soldiers are aggressive, representing the chaos and violence of the outside world. Ivo's concern for his neighbors heightens as the villagers are forced to confront the reality of war. The pivotal moment occurs when Ivo decides to shelter a wounded soldier, a decision fueled by compassion amidst fear. This moment shows his humanity, revealing his moral compass in a time of despair. After this, Ivo's life shifts as he becomes a reluctant caretaker caught between two warring factions. The audience feels a mix of anxiety and hope, as Ivo’s choice to help another reflects the best of human nature. This scene highlights how war disturbs peace and forces people to make tough choices, establishing a theme of humanity amidst conflict.
Context: Set during the Abkhazian conflict in Georgia, this scene introduces the viewer to the world of the characters and the conflict they must navigate.
The Meeting of Ivo and the Soldiers
Tension thickens when Ivo first meets the soldiers, especially after he brings in a wounded Azerbaijani soldier, Ahmed. The nervous energy is marked by the soldiers' aggressive demeanor and Ivo's determination to protect Ahmed. This pivotal moment occurs when the soldiers question Ivo’s loyalty and intentions, leading to a clash of ideologies. The visuals are stark, showcasing the villagers' simple lives contrasted with the soldiers' brutality. Afterward, Ivo’s act of defiance turns the soldiers’ anger toward him, yet his courage stands out as a testament to his character. Viewers experience a whirlwind of emotions—fear for Ivo’s safety and admiration for his bravery. This scene underscores the weight of personal choices in wartime and highlights themes of empathy and conflict.
Context: As tensions rise, this interaction showcases Ivo’s struggle to protect humanity in a war-torn world.
The Conversation Between Ivo and Ahmed
Ivo and Ahmed share a quiet moment in the midst of chaos, discussing their lives, dreams, and regrets. This intimate dialogue opens up their backgrounds, humanizing them beyond the war. The pivotal point is when Ahmed expresses hope for a future beyond the conflict, and Ivo reveals his deep-seated fears. It’s a vulnerable exchange that highlights their humanity despite being on opposing sides. At this moment, the audience feels a bond forming between them, punctuated by the stark reality they face. The aftermath sees both characters reflecting on their choices and the futility of war. This scene evokes feelings of sorrow, understanding, and a desire for peace, resonating deeply with viewers. It connects to the film’s themes of common humanity and the pain of war.
Context: This scene deepens the viewer’s understanding of the characters, bridging divides through their shared experiences.
The Return of the Soldier
As the story progresses, Ahmed, who has healed, grapples with the decision to return to battle or escape. This moment heightens the emotional stakes—will he choose duty over life? The visuals are haunting, as the looming threat of war surrounds him. The pivotal moment occurs when he confesses his fear of returning and how the fight seems meaningless. Ivo’s compassionate response reflects his understanding of the broader impacts of war. This conversation reshapes their relationship, as Ahmed wrestles with his identity and beliefs. The aftermath sees Ahmed ultimately choosing to stay, symbolizing a rejection of the violence that has brought them together in the first place. For viewers, this scene elicits a sense of despair mingled with hope—showing the struggle between loyalty and the desire for peace. It communicates the internal struggles faced by soldiers and the impact of war on personal identity.
Context: This moment represents an intersection between duty and humanity, emphasizing the personal costs of war.
Ivo’s Sacrifice
In an intense moment of discovery, Ivo learns that Ahmed must leave to join the fight. The mood shifts as Ivo makes a personal sacrifice to ensure Ahmed’s safety. The scene pivots on Ivo’s heartbreaking decision to aid Ahmed despite the risks to himself. The visuals of Ivo in the quiet of his home deepen the emotional weight, showing his isolation and resolve. After Ivo’s selfless act, it influences Ahmed’s decision to embrace peace rather than conflict. This scene resonates powerfully, evoking emotions of heartbreak, bravery, and selflessness. It speaks to the enduring spirit of compassion in the shadow of war, marking a key turning point in the characters’ journey.
Context: Ivo’s sacrifice highlights the film’s central themes of humanity’s struggle against the backdrop of conflict and personal loss.
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Behind the Scenes from Movie Tangerines
Casting Choices
The film's lead actors, Levan Tsvikadze and Ilya Iosashvili, were chosen for their authenticity and background, having prior experience that resonated with the characters.
Why it matters: Their realistic performances added depth to the story, enhancing the portrayal of ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances.
Locational Authenticity
Filming took place in the same Estonian village that featured in the story, providing a genuine atmosphere that complemented the narrative's themes.
Why it matters: This choice brought an authentic backdrop that allowed audiences to immerse themselves in the setting of war-torn Georgia.
Improvised Dialogues
Several key scenes included improvised lines that came about during rehearsals, contributing to the naturalistic feel of the film.
Why it matters: Improvisation helped the actors build chemistry and convincingly express raw emotions, making the interactions feel more genuine.
Symbolic Use of Tangerines
The tangerines in the film symbolize peace and the fragility of life amid conflict, intentionally incorporated by the director, Zaza Urushadze.
Why it matters: This clever use of symbolism adds layers of meaning to the narrative, enriching the viewer’s experience and understanding of the characters' struggles.
Minimalism in Set Design
The filmmakers opted for minimalist set designs, focusing on realism rather than embellishment, which reflected the characters' struggles.
Why it matters: This choice allowed viewers to concentrate more on the emotional narratives rather than superficial aesthetics.
On-Set Collaboration
The collaboration between the director and the actors was open, allowing them to contribute ideas to scenes, boosting their engagement.
Why it matters: This collaborative approach fostered a strong team dynamic and enhanced the film's authenticity through shared input.
Cultural Relevance
The film was set against the backdrop of the 1990s Abkhazian War, highlighting real historical events that shaped the emotional landscape of the film.
Why it matters: By grounding the narrative in actual history, the film gains an impactful context that resonates with audiences familiar with the conflict.
Character Backgrounds
The two main characters, Ivo and Margus, were crafted with backgrounds inspired by real-life people involved in the war, deepening their relatability.
Why it matters: Drawing from real experiences helps viewers connect with the characters, enhancing emotional investment in their journey.
Award-Winning Recognition
The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, signaling its critical acclaim and cultural impact.
Why it matters: The recognition helped elevate worldwide conversation about Georgia’s history and the stories of those affected by war.
Emotionally Charged Music
The score, composed by Nika Machaidze, features soft melodies that bridge the gap between the tense narrative and character emotions.
Why it matters: The music plays a crucial role in establishing the emotional tone, guiding viewers' feelings during pivotal moments in the story.
Filming Techniques
The cinematographer utilized natural lighting wherever possible, creating a realistic ambiance that echoes the characters' experiences.
Why it matters: This technique allows for a more intimate viewing experience, drawing audiences closer to the emotional weight of each scene.
Language Authenticity
Actors delivered dialogues in Georgian and Russian, adding authenticity to the film's cultural context.
Why it matters: This decision immerses the audience in the narrative, providing a deeper understanding of the characters’ identities and struggles.
Director's Vision
Zaza Urushadze filmed the movie with a focus on human emotions and relationships rather than action, showcasing the impact of war on everyday lives.
Why it matters: This artistic choice highlights the emotional scars left by conflict, creating a powerful narrative that resonates on a personal level.
Thematic Parallels
The film juxtaposes themes of war and peace, underscoring how human relationships can endure despite external turmoil.
Why it matters: This thematic exploration fosters a richer interpretation of the narrative, encouraging discussions around unconditional friendship in crisis.
Limited Shooting Days
The entire film was shot in a compact 20-day schedule, requiring precision and efficiency from the cast and crew.
Why it matters: This tight schedule tested the team’s dedication, ultimately creating a tight, focused narrative that resonates with audiences due to its intensity.
Foreshadowing Techniques
The use of visual and audio foreshadowing in the film subtly hints at character fates, enhancing the narrative's tension.
Why it matters: Such storytelling techniques deepen the engagement of the audience, inviting them to look for clues while revealing complexities within the story.
Scenes of Reflection
Several scenes were dedicated to moments of silence and reflection, intentionally increasing emotional weight.
Why it matters: These pauses create a contemplative space for audiences to process the impact of war on relationships and humanity.
Surprise Elements
A humorous scene unexpectedly interjects in the drama, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit even amid sorrow.
Why it matters: This balance of humor amidst bleak circumstances cultivates a poignant connection with the audience, allowing for emotional relief.
Community Engagement
Local villagers were involved in the filmmaking process, helping create a sense of authenticity within the narrative.
Why it matters: This engagement bridged the gap between film and reality, enriching the story’s context and providing a sense of community collaboration.
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