This film is a very shallow take of a biopic based on Serbian folk legend Tomislav Zdravkovic. Never does it seem to dig deep into its protagonists' character, but rather positions itself as a soap opera regarding mostly his tumultuous love life. Whatsmore, not even this is accurately delivered, as half of his marriages are omitted from the picture. Tomislav's recurring romantic interest in colleague Silvana Armenulic serves as a centerpiece in his everlasting quest for true love - a seemingly fictitious notion which was, upon release, discredited by their contemporary and close friend Lepa Lukic, as well as Silvana's husband Radmilo Armenulic. Further fiction is handed in the likes of one Doctor Hadzipopovic and his wife, Ljiljana. Hadzipopovic quickly establishes himself as one of the main characters, and his wife's certain demise at the hands of illness are more often than not executed as cheap tearjerkers (among many similar ones) - including a scene which might catch the viewer off guard, in which it is suggested that Tomislav Zdravkovic wrote his song "Za Ljiljanu" ("For Ljliljana) for this indeed made-up character. Furthermore, the story of childhood love Raska is recurringly delivered only through flashbacks and hallucinations, and almost seems like an abandoned concept, an idea never fully developed nor executed accordingly.
Redeeming qualities of the film include some solid performances from the cast, the musical score, photography and costumes. Furthermore, director Dragan Bjelogrlic doesn't even remotely try to hide the commercial appeal he sews into this film - having the character of Zdravkovic perform the currently popular "Bella ciao" song at one of his gigs. Accompanied by (un)inspiring tales of love, loss and betrayal and pretty scenery - this film might appeal to the masses, but falls flat for those seeking a more introspective and complex view into the life of Tomislav Zdravkovic.
Redeeming qualities of the film include some solid performances from the cast, the musical score, photography and costumes. Furthermore, director Dragan Bjelogrlic doesn't even remotely try to hide the commercial appeal he sews into this film - having the character of Zdravkovic perform the currently popular "Bella ciao" song at one of his gigs. Accompanied by (un)inspiring tales of love, loss and betrayal and pretty scenery - this film might appeal to the masses, but falls flat for those seeking a more introspective and complex view into the life of Tomislav Zdravkovic.