The Theatre of Scupi

On the outskirts of Skopje, archeologists discovered the remains of an ancient Roman city called Skupi. The amphitheater is one of many other public buildings that testify to what was once a lively city on the Via Egnatia. The theatre was a place for social gatherings, festivals, games and plays. Skopje City Council intends to reconstruct the amphitheater and reopen it for public use. The reconstruction project is estimated to last for three years, and this documentary follows the activities at the meeting point between the distant past and present times. Human curiosity often manifests and satisfies itself through the phenomenon of “scenium”. Contemporary people share the same desires and urges for more or less similar objectives.

Directed by Vladimir Blaževski, The Theatre of Scupi leans on a strong ensemble — Blagoj Veselinov — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2019.