Anamaria Marinca Accepts Best European Film Award for Housekeeping for Beginners at Septimius 2024

At the renowned Septimius Awards 2024, held on August 20 at the historic Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam, Housekeeping for Beginners, directed by Goran Stolevski, was honored with the Best European Film award. This momentous win for Stolevski, a rising Macedonian-Australian director, highlights his growing influence in European cinema. His film, a poignant and compelling exploration of identity, survival, and the messy intricacies of family, stood out among the year's European contenders, cementing its place in the spotlight.

With Stolevski unable to attend, acclaimed Romanian actress Anamaria Marinca took the stage to accept the award on his behalf. Known for her riveting performance in the Palme d'Or-winning 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days, Marinca’s presence added gravitas to the moment. In her acceptance speech, she conveyed Stolevski’s deep appreciation for the recognition and spoke of the film’s emotional resonance with audiences. She emphasized that Housekeeping for Beginners wasn’t just another story; it was a narrative woven from the struggles and dreams of those often overlooked by mainstream cinema.

Housekeeping for Beginners is set in a modest, working-class neighborhood in North Macedonia and follows the lives of a group of individuals who form a makeshift family. In a society grappling with modern challenges, the film intricately examines the intersecting issues of gender, sexuality, and belonging. At its core, it is a film about survival—of both the spirit and the body—as the characters confront their own limitations and find solace in one another. Stolevski has been praised for his ability to capture human experiences with raw authenticity, and this film is no exception. The narrative unfolds in a way that allows the characters to be fully realized, making their journeys both relatable and deeply moving.

Winning Best European Film at the Septimius Awards is a significant achievement for Housekeeping for Beginners, especially considering the festival’s prominence in highlighting diverse and groundbreaking films from across the globe. Over the years, the Septimius Awards have gained a reputation for recognizing films that challenge conventional norms and offer fresh perspectives, making this victory a true honor for Stolevski and his team.

Anamaria Marinca’s acceptance of the award was filled with emotion, as she spoke not only of Stolevski’s artistic vision but also of the hard work and dedication of the entire cast and crew. She highlighted the film’s deeply personal nature, sharing that Stolevski was committed to telling the stories of those who often find themselves on the margins of society. Through the film’s intimate portrayal of LGBTQ+ struggles, immigration challenges, and economic hardship, Housekeeping for Beginners gives voice to communities that are frequently underrepresented on screen.

The film’s journey to this prestigious award was not without challenges. As Marinca noted in her speech, the production faced numerous obstacles, from budget constraints to the difficulties of filming in a region with limited infrastructure for cinema. Yet, despite these hurdles, the cast and crew's passion and perseverance shone through, culminating in a film that has resonated with audiences far and wide.

For Goran Stolevski, this award is more than just an accolade—it marks a turning point in his career. As a filmmaker who has consistently sought to explore complex, human stories, his work has garnered attention from both European and international audiences. His previous film, You Won’t Be Alone, showcased his ability to weave folklore with grounded realism, a talent that has become his signature. With Housekeeping for Beginners, he takes that skill to new heights, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of people on the fringes, navigating personal and societal turmoil.

The recognition at the Septimius Awards also brings Housekeeping for Beginners to the forefront of international cinema. Winning Best European Film at such a prestigious event ensures that the film will continue to find new audiences and receive further acclaim on the festival circuit. Its win at Septimius solidifies the film’s importance in the contemporary cinematic landscape, celebrating not just its artistic merit but also its social relevance.

As the curtain fell on the Septimius Awards 2024, Housekeeping for Beginners and Goran Stolevski’s remarkable storytelling were etched into the annals of European film history. The film’s win is a powerful reminder of the transformative nature of cinema—one that can turn the stories of ordinary people into extraordinary works of art.