Tomka and His Friends

As part of the ‘Cinema of Childhood’ festival, we are lucky enough to be the first ones in Britain to see this endearing film; set during WWII in a picturesque Albanian village, which has just been liberated from the Italian fascists – by the Nazis. It is filmed in stark monochrome to highlight the serious issues being dealt with. As a clear metaphor for Europe-wide occupation, the Nazis have the audacity to set up camp on Tomka’s football pitch; he and his gang won’t take it lying down. There are some powerful scenes in which the young cast give spirited performances.

Duke of York’s cinema, 24 May 2014

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