Hey everyone!
I'm thrilled to share another SXSW 2025 interview with you.
This time, I spoke with Thea Gajić & Slavko Sobin from the film Surviving Earth.
Surviving Earth is a poignant drama based on a true story about Vlad, a talented harmonica player, and counselor who fled the conflict in Yugoslavia and rebuilt his life in Bristol. As he rekindles his passion for Balkan music by forming a band with his friends, unresolved traumas begin to resurface, jeopardizing his relationships, especially with his daughter, Maria.
Buy tickets for Surviving Earth's SXSW screenings here.
I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!
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Chapters
00:15 - Meeting Thea and Slavko
00:37 - Synopsis of Surviving Earth and Screening Details
01:09 - Inspiration Behind the Film
02:08 - Slavko's Preparation for the Role of Vlad
03:45 - Thea's Perspective on the Stigma of Addiction
05:20 - Mental Health in Balkan Culture
06:17 - Balancing Lightness and Darkness in Vlad's Character
07:29 - Connecting with Vlad
07:59 - Balkan Culture and Music
08:28 - Exploring Vlad's Complexity
09:20 - Capturing the Nuances of Vlad
09:35 - Thea & Slavko's Collaboration Process
12:48 - Language and Identity in the Film
15:27 - Challenges and Reflections
20:04 - Core Message and Audience Takeaways
24:01 - Conclusion and Farewell
25:41 - Plugs
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