Out of Love

Fusing documentary and fiction, the film depicts the lives of children trying to survive the aftermath of war in Kosovo by selling cigarettes on the street. Through monologues performed by the children against the eerie backdrops of Pristina, the film tells their gripping and sad story of memory, loss and fear.

Directed by Birgitte Stærmose, Out of Love leans on a strong ensemble — Liridon Abdullahu, Xhevahire Abdullahu, Shpresim Azemi — 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 2009.