Before the Rain (1994)

In the tumultuous landscape of the Republic of Macedonia, during the Bosnia war, the relentless cycle of violence weaves a narrative that spirals back onto itself in the movie, "Before the Rain". The plot is creatively segregated into three interconnected stories, painting a vivid portrait of deep-seated ethnic and religious animosities nearing their explosive climax. In the heart of Macedonia, a silent young monk, bound by his vows, becomes the unlikely protector of a hunted ethnic Albanian girl accused of a murder. His spiritual journey unearths a poignant truth - the essence of humanity that transcends religious affiliations. Simultaneously, in the bustling city of London, a pregnant photo editor attempts to reconcile with her estranged husband over a meal in a high-end restaurant. She yearns for a stable future with her lover, an acclaimed Macedonian photographer, who has just returned from the Bosnian warfront, his soul scarred by the atrocities witnessed. This photographer, drawn back to his native village after a 16-year hiatus, finds himself in the middle of a bitter feud between his Orthodox brethren and the local Albanians. Struggling to ignore the prevalent discord, he eventually seeks to rise above it, embodying a symbol of hope amidst despair. "Before the Rain" is an evocative cinematic masterpiece that explores the harsh realities of war and its debilitating aftermath, while lamenting the loss of pastoral innocence. It presents a timeless commentary on the senselessness of violence, the complexity of love, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

Before the Rain is a drama movie featuring Katrin Cartlidge.

Before the Rain is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.