Zift
Zift is a rather peculiar film and although not necessarily easily digested in one viewing, it’s a good choice for MIFF attendees who like their films to be edgy, fast-paced and non-linear.
The story takes place in Bulgaria in the middle of last century, and begins with our protagonist’s release from jail. He goes by the name of Moth, and as we see him mouthing off at a prison warden on the way out, we can make a reliable guess about this man isn’t short of a pair of “cahones”.
The reason for his imprisonment is revealed via a series of flashbacks in which we learn about key characters in his life, such as his accomplice cum nemesis “Slug” and the object of both Slug’s and Moth’s attentions: Ada, the ravishing femme fatale (who has been dubbed with an appropriately man-eating moniker: “mantis”). While in prison, Moth is kept amused by the philosophical and fatalistic proclamations of his cellmate “Van Wurst, The Eye”.
Of course, none of the characters are very well developed, but then that’s not the point of this movie, though there is some depth in the political backdrop of the story and Sots Art references, if one cares to look.
Zift, a visually striking film, comprises a curious melange of cinematic elements. It is testosterone-driven but occasionally camp, edgy and racy with neo-noir leanings, but at the same time, containing nostalgic and quite beautifully filmed coming-of-age flashbacks. The question is: will the diverse themes and styles draw wide audiences, or divide audiences?