Film Lens

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