Aferim!

In the harsh winter of 1835 Wallachia, the landscape stretches across rolling hills and secluded villages, each bearing the weight of old customs and unspoken hierarchies. The film invites us into a world where the clatter of horse hooves and the distant echo of church bells form a rhythm that both comforts and constricts those who live within it. Amid this austere setting, a rigid gendarme is tasked with a delicate pursuit that promises to stir the quiet tensions of the countryside.

The story follows Costandin, a seasoned constable whose stern demeanor masks a lifetime of service and sacrifice, and his thoughtful son, who travels beside him as both apprentice and companion. Alongside them rides the eager deputy Ioniță, whose youthful perspective often clashes with the older man’s measured resolve. Their trio moves through a mosaic of communities—monasteries, peasant homes, and wandering travelers—each encounter reflecting the deep‑seated prejudices and unexamined values that linger beneath the surface of everyday life.

Their mission centers on locating a Roma slave rumored to be entangled in a scandal that reaches the highest echelons of local nobility. This pursuit becomes more than a simple chase; it turns into a quiet examination of loyalty, justice, and the fragile bond between father and son. As they navigate the rugged terrain, the film balances the stark realism of historical hardship with moments of dark humor and lingering melancholy, hinting at the profound changes that may arise when long‑held beliefs are quietly challenged.

Last Updated: September 09, 2025 at 15:26