I Do Not Care If We Go Down in History as Barbarians

In the heart of Bucharest, Mariana Marin, a talented young film director, embarks on a challenging project. She decides to create a dramatic reenactment that will explore a dark chapter of Romania's past, particularly focusing on the events surrounding the fascist regime of 1941.

The story Mariana seeks to tell revolves around Romania's alliance with Hitler during World War II. This alliance aimed to reclaim territories lost to Stalin and to cleanse the regions of Jews and Roma, reflecting a troubling aspect of the nation's history.

As Mariana immerses herself in the rehearsal process, her personal life takes an unexpected turn. She discovers that she is pregnant with the child of her married lover, which adds emotional tension to her already ambitious project.

Mariana's creative vision faces external pressures as a representative from the funding ministry expresses concerns about the screenplay. Despite acknowledging its historical accuracy, he urges her to soften the narrative to avoid backlash from the public and ensure the project's continuation.

After extensive discussions, Mariana reluctantly agrees to make several adjustments to her screenplay. She aims to maintain the integrity of the story while accommodating the demands of the funding ministry, indicating the struggle between art and external influences.

In a surprising twist, Mariana accepts a date with the ministry representative. This decision adds another layer to her personal dilemmas, as she navigates the complexities of her relationships while trying to stay focused on her art.

The day of the event finally arrives, marked by a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Mariana's hard work culminates in this performance, and she hopes the audience will grasp the significance of the historical narrative she is conveying.

As the event unfolds, the audience's responses are starkly divided. Many in the Romanian populace struggle to confront the truths about their nation's involvement in the deportations and mass executions during the war, reflecting a profound societal conflict.

The reactions of the volunteer participants also highlight the complexities of acknowledging historical truths. Some participants experience an emotional conflict as they grapple with their identities in light of the painful history being reenacted.

Throughout this journey, Mariana's story raises significant questions regarding memory, responsibility, and personal identity. The intertwining of her professional and personal challenges emphasizes the impact of history on individual lives.

The event leaves Mariana reflecting on the broader implications of historical acknowledgment. It becomes clear that reconciliation with the past is a painful yet necessary step for both her and her country as they confront the remnants of their shared history.

Facing the challenges presented by both her film and her personal life, Mariana must make critical choices. These decisions will shape not only her future as a filmmaker but also her understanding of her responsibilities toward her heritage and the truth.

The impact of Mariana's film is felt beyond the stage, triggering discussions within Romanian society about wartime history. As people are confronted with the realities of their past, the film serves as a catalyst for a broader dialogue on memory and accountability.

Ultimately, Mariana's artistic endeavor becomes a significant part of her legacy. It challenges viewers to not only reflect on the historical context but also to consider their roles in shaping the future as they reckon with their collective memories.