Latvian Film Captures Complexities of Aging Love and Codependency
Bauska, Latvia – On Wednesday, December 4th, the Bauska Culture Center will be hosting a special screening of "Be Faithful to Death," the latest documentary film from acclaimed Latvian director Ivars Zviedris. The screening will be followed by a captivating discussion with the filmmakers, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the film’s compelling narrative and themes.
"Be Faithful to Death" shines a poignant light on the lives of Latvia’s elderly population, where nearly one in five individuals are aged 65 or older. The film explores the inherent vulnerabilities and societal challenges faced by this demographic, highlighting the risk of poverty and social exclusion that many seniors navigate.
While Latvian law offers some solace, granting surviving spouses half of their deceased partner’s pension for a year, the film reveals that marriage among seniors has surprisingly surged. In fact, over 1,700 individuals over the age of 60 tied the knot in Latvia in the recent past.
The film centers on Mara and Ivar, an elderly couple whose 24-year relationship has evolved into a complex dynamic of codependency. "Mara and Ivar are not included in these statistics," the filmmakers emphasize. Their love story has transitioned beyond romantic notions, revealing the raw realities of aging and interdependence. What began as a heartwarming partnership has transformed, leaving remnants of affectionate nicknames replaced by sharper criticisms.
As Ivar’s health deteriorates, the delicate balance of their codependency is thrown into disarray. Mara grapples with a heart-wrenching dilemma – should she seek release from the burden of their challenging relationship, or remain bound by a duty of loyalty to Ivar? "Be Faithful to Death" weaves a captivating narrative, exploring the intricate tapestry of love, sacrifice, and the enduring complexities of human connection in the twilight years.
Ivars Zviedris, a celebrated Latvian director and cameraman, has garnered critical acclaim for numerous documentaries, including "Capracci" (2023), "Bach against Covid" (2022), and "Unseen, Brasa!" (2021).
The screening promises a compelling experience, with core creative team members – director, cinematographer, and producer Ivars Zviedris, editorial director and script co-author Haralds Ozols, and sound director Đirts Biš — participating in a post-film discussion.
Admission to the event is free and open to the public.
2024-12-01 08:42:00
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## Love, Duty, and Decay: “Be Faithful to Death” Explores Aging Love in Latvia
Bauska, Latvia – The Bauska Culture Center will host a poignant screening of Latvian director Ivars Zviedris’ latest documentary, “Be Faithful to Death,” on December 4th, followed by an in-depth discussion with the filmmaking team.
“Be Faithful to death” offers a stark and empathetic look at the aging population in Latvia, a contry where nearly 20% of residents are over 65. While Latvia’s law provides some financial support to surviving spouses, the film delves deeper into the complexities of relationships and the societal challenges faced by seniors. The narrative centers around Mara and Ivar, an elderly couple whose 24-year partnership has evolved into a complex dynamic of codependency, raising questions about love, sacrifice, and the boundaries of duty in the twilight years.
To discuss the film’s profound themes and explore the realities of aging Love in Latvia, we sat down with Ivars Zviedris, director and cinematographer of ”Be Faithful to Death,” and Haralds Ozols, the film’s editorial director and script co-author.
### Depicting Aging Love in Latvia
**World Today News:** “Be Faithful to Death” paints a captivating and somewhat unsettling portrait of an aging couple’s relationship. What motivated you to tell their story?
**Ivars Zviedris:** “We were struck by the stark reality of aging and its complexities in Latvia.While statistics highlight the increase in marriages among seniors, we wanted to delve deeper into the lived experiences of these relationships. Mara and Ivar’s story, tho unique, reveals a global truth about the shifting dynamics of love and interdependence as we age.”
**Haralds Ozols:** “Their story transcends romance. It’s about the raw realities of aging, the burden of care, and the often unspoken expectations within long-term relationships.We hope to spark conversation about the challenges and triumphs of navigating love and companionship in later life.”
### Beyond Romantic Notions: Codependency and Sacrifice
**world Today News:** the film explores the delicate balance of codependency within Mara and Ivar’s relationship. How did you approach this sensitive subject matter?
**Ivars Zviedris:** “We wanted to portray their relationship authentically, without judgment. While their dynamic may appear unhealthy at times,it’s rooted in a deep history and a profound sense of obligation. It’s challenging to disentangle love from duty, especially when one partner’s health deteriorates.”
**Haralds Ozols:** “Mara’s dilemma is heartbreaking.She grapples with the emotional and physical toll of caring for Ivar while confronting her own needs and desires.The film invites us to consider the sacrifices individuals make within long-term relationships and the complex emotions that arise.”
### “Be Faithful to Death” and Societal Repercussions
**World Today News:** How does “Be Faithful to Death” connect to the broader social context of aging in Latvia?
**Ivars Zviedris:** “Our film shines a light on a societal issue that deserves more attention.The growing number of seniors in Latvia necessitates a stronger support system, not just financially, but emotionally and practically. We need to ensure that the later years are lived with dignity and access to care, acknowledging the diverse realities of aging.”
**Haralds Ozols:** “Mara and Ivar’s story is a microcosm of the challenges faced by many senior couples. It underscores the need for open conversations about aging, caregiving, and the importance of community support. But it also highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of connection, even in the face of adversity.”
### A Call for Compassionate Discussion
“Be Faithful to Death” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that compels us to confront the realities of aging love and the complexities of human connection in the face of vulnerability. The screening at Bauska Culture Center promises a rich and meaningful engagement with the filmmakers, offering viewers an opportunity to delve deeper into the film’s themes and share their own perspectives.
**don’t miss this impactful event on December 4th and join the conversation.**
**For further insights into aging populations and societal support systems, explore our related articles on elder care, policies for seniors, and the evolving landscape of companionship in later life.**
