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Deep Dive: Gjama (2021)

Film Lens

Gjama
In 'Gjama', Zgjim Elshani captures the mourning ritual of Gjama, which is traditionally performed by Albanian men. This ritual involves shouting specific phrases and adhering to a strict choreography to honor the deceased. The film aims to recover elements of this practice in communities where collective grieving plays a crucial role in coping with loss. Elshani's work challenges the norms of emotional expression in a male-dominated society. By re-enacting Gjama, the film prompts viewers to reconsider the significance of public displays of emotion and the cultural importance of mourning rituals in Albania.

Why Watch

  • See the unique Gjama mourning ritual in action.
  • Meet the director Zgjim Elshani and his vision.
  • Find out how grief is expressed in Albanian culture.

Did You Know

The film 'Gjama' was released in 2021.
Zgjim Elshani is the director of 'Gjama'.
The film has a duration of 9 minutes.

Perfect For

Cultural anthropologyAlbanian traditionsMourning practices