Europa

Beate is on an executive mission in the Balkans for a giant corporation called "Europe". On the surface, it appears that the ambitious young manager is promoting philanthropy and investing in underdeveloped regions. Journeying to a remote valley in Albania, her actual assignment is to buy up land from the few locals there. The plan proves difficult, however, when Beate comes across with the headstrong Jetnor. The stubborn spiritual farmer and beekeeper refuses to give up his ancestral land, no matter what the price. With sharp social criticism, director Sudabeh Mortezai provides insight into the excesses of modern capitalism while expressing her deepest respect for foreign culture. (Zurich Film Festival)