The Great Water

The film opens with Meto Jovanovski, a seasoned politician, being taken to the hospital for urgent medical care due to his critical heart condition. This moment sets the stage for his reflections on his tumultuous childhood and the effects of war in Macedonia.

As Meto begins to recover, his mind drifts back to the year 1945, a time filled with uncertainty and change due to the aftermath of war. These memories transport the audience to a period that deeply shaped his character and life choices.

In 1945, the story shifts to an orphanage where children are being molded into loyal supporters of the Communist regime. Here, Meto experiences a structured environment that prioritizes obedience and conformity over individuality.

Meto reflects on the various challenges he faced in the orphanage, including the pressure to conform to the ideologies of the state. This era is marked by a struggle to maintain one's identity amidst oppressive societal expectations.

In the midst of the oppressive atmosphere, Meto forms an unexpected friendship with Isak, a radiant and charming child. This bond sparks a flicker of hope and emotional connection that contrasts sharply with the bleak surroundings.

The film delves into the underlying tensions between the Communist regime's rejection of faith and the children's inherent need for spiritual connection. It explores how this need is stifled by the regime's agenda.

As the narrative unfolds, it grapples with the complex legacies left by leaders such as Stalin and Tito. Their effects on political values and societal expectations are keenly felt by the children growing up under their regimes.

The story highlights the difficult transition to a new political order intent on erasing national pride. This change leaves a lasting impact on the children's identities, robbing them of a sense of belonging and historical context.

Ultimately, the film poignantly depicts the tragic transformation of children into mere instruments of the state. Their unique identities are overshadowed by the demands of loyalty to a regime that prioritizes collective ideology over individual spirit.

The narrative culminates in a heart-wrenching portrayal of the loss of innocence among the children. They are forced to navigate a world that denies their individuality and the simple joys of childhood friendship.