Normal Life

Returning from prison, Peter falls into debt pursuing a relationship with the prostitute Ana and her pimp Gringo. To pay back the money owed, Peter proposes that Ana and Gringo visit his father with him. They accept his proposal, thinking they might trick some money out of the old mountaineer with a story about Ana's upcoming marriage to Peter (with Gringo as the best man). During the long and colorful journey the three become friends and complicit in the deception. Peter's father, though, instantly recognizes the scam and steals the bride from his incompetent son. Gringo is happy with this turn of events but Peter is irritated by it. However, the father's sudden death before the registrar prevents Ana and Gringo from inheriting. When the dreams of material wealth vanish, what is left is the love between Ana and Peter, and the friendship that struck up between the three, so much so that at the end Gringo sacrifices himself for the couple's happiness.

Directed by Dimitar Anakiev, Normal Life leans on a strong ensemble — Iva Babič, Irfan Beširević, Walter Dragosavljević-Rutar — 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 drama titles of 2012.