2003-05-21
$0.5M
104 min
Till recently a University professor, a bohemian writer, a member of Belgrade's intellectual circles and a passionate opponent of the Milosevic's regime meets the man, unknown to him, but who knows every tiny detail of his life. Man tells him a story and plot unfolds unimaginably.
Profesionalac (The Professional) is a stark and brutal black comedy that has earned its status as a cult film in Serbian cinema.
The film is celebrated for its razor-sharp, darkly humorous dialogue, much of which has become deeply embedded in the local vernacular. Its power lies in its unflinching portrayal of a society in moral and economic decay, where absurdity and tragedy are intertwined. The protagonist's world-weary philosophy and memorable monologues critique the post-socialist transition, resonating with audiences who lived through the era.
While its technical execution is considered rough by some, this almost documentary-like rawness enhances the film's authentic and oppressive atmosphere. It is not a glamorous thriller but a cynical, character-driven story that reflects a specific time and place with painful accuracy.
