Beyond the Hills is the latest film from Romanian filmmaker Cristian Mungiu, probably best known for his 2007 Palme d’Or-winning drama centered around illegal abortions 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days. If you have not realized by now Cristian Mungiu does not make light, easy-going films and Beyond the Hills continues in the same vein as his previous thought-provoking films. The film premiered in the main competition at last year’s Cannes Film Festival, where Mungiu won for Best Screenplay and actresses Cristina Flutur and Cosmina Stratan shared the award for Best Actress.
Based on the works of Tatiana Niculescu Bran, Deadly Confession and Judges’ Book, Beyond the Hills centers around Alina (Flutur) and Voichita (Stratan) who have known and supported each other since meeting as children in an orphanage. After several years apart, the young women reconnect at a remote convent in Romania, where Voichita has been staying. Alina starts to challenge the priest and soon the convent suspects that Alina is possessed, leading to an exorcism. Beyond the Hills will have a limited run starting March 8th. Hit the jump to view the powerful, beautifully shot and haunting trailer.
