The short fiction film Ušće zla, directed and edited by Katja Restović, is one of the most notable independent regional film projects of the early 2010s, screened at several short-film festivals across the region. Created in 2011, the film is recognized for its dark atmosphere, minimalist dramaturgy and powerful acting performances.
The leading roles are played by Davor Garić, Annamaria Tubaković and Azeglio Picco, whose performances bring tension and psychological depth to the film. Their work has been frequently highlighted as a key element of Restović’s directorial approach, which relies strongly on the actor’s presence and visual rhythm.
The original score was composed by Zoran Trubić, and the makeup was created by Kristina Gaitan Carvajal. Camera and post-production: Josip Pino Ružić, and sound: Marin Brkljača. The production set organizer was Žitomir Klaričić and the props came from the archive.
The screenplay was written by Zoran Antićević, a Rijeka-based author and long-time collaborator on numerous artistic projects. Active in dramaturgy and screenwriting within the independent film and theatre scene, Antićević crafted for Ušće zla one of his more mature short-form works. His experience includes several theatre–film projects, particularly in the domain of experimental film and video art.
After production, the film was screened at several small festivals and short-film showcases, especially those dedicated to regional independent cinema. Although it did not have a broad commercial release, Ušće zla left a distinct impression within the independent film community due to its strong authorial signature and the fact that it stems from the creative workshop of Katja Restović — an artist known for her interdisciplinary approach to art.
Some viewers described it as “shocking and controversial” precisely because of its condensed form and intense expression.
Restović — director, screenwriter, visual artist and cultural producer — created the film during a period of prolific work in short fiction and documentary formats. Today, Ušće zla is remembered as one of the projects that helped establish her distinctive visual and narrative style.
The film can be viewed at:
https://youtu.be/T5_Hh1G425U?si=yjs3n8CZPH21_uB5
