My Happy Family

Georgian woman seeks independence from traditional family

Watch on Netflix
About My Happy Family

Released:

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 1h 59m

Cast
Ia Shugliashvili, Merab Ninidze, Berta Khapava, Tsisia Qumsishvili, Giorgi Khurtsilava, Giorgi Tabidze, Goven Cheishvili, Dimitri Oragvelidze, Mariam Bokeria

About My Happy Family

My Happy Family is a television show that falls under the Eastern European Movies genre. The show revolves around the life of a middle-aged woman named Manana, who decides to leave her family in order to live alone and pursue her own happiness. The show offers a realistic depiction of the everyday challenges and pressures faced by women in Eastern European society.

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About

The show follows the story of Manana, a middle-aged woman who decides to move out of her crowded apartment and live alone in order to find happiness. Her decision shocks her family, who struggle to understand her choice. Through Manana's journey, the show explores themes of female empowerment, independence, and the complexities of familial and societal expectations.

The plot of My Happy Family is driven by Manana's relationships with her family members and friends. It delves into the challenges she faces in breaking free from the traditional roles assigned to women in Eastern European society, as well as the reactions and limitations placed upon her by those around her.

Making / Production

My Happy Family is a co-production between Georgia and Germany. The show was directed by Nana Ekvtimishvili and Simon Gross and written by Ekvtimishvili. It was released in 2017 and gained critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of the Eastern European society.

The production of the series involved extensive research into the cultural and social aspects of life in Eastern Europe. The set designs, costumes, and locations were carefully chosen to accurately reflect the environment and atmosphere of the region.

Actors

  • Ia Shugliashvili as Manana - Shugliashvili delivers a powerful performance as Manana, capturing the inner conflicts and desires of the character.
  • Merab Ninidze as Soso - Ninidze plays Manana's husband, portraying the complex dynamics within their marriage.
  • Berta Khapava as Lamara - Khapava shines in her role as Manana's mother, providing a compelling portrayal of the traditional ideals imposed upon women in Eastern European society.
  • Dimitri Oragvelidze as Lasha - Oragvelidze portrays Manana's son, depicting the generational gap and the struggles faced by young adults in the changing society.
  • Goven Cheishvili as Nino - Cheishvili brings a youthful energy to the character of Nino, Manana's daughter, showcasing the challenges faced by younger generations to forge their own paths.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The script for My Happy Family was inspired by real-life stories and experiences of women in Eastern Europe.
  • The film was shot on location in Tbilisi, Georgia, capturing the authentic atmosphere and scenery of the city.
  • My Happy Family received positive reviews from critics for its realistic portrayal of societal and familial pressures on women.

Awards

My Happy Family has received several awards and nominations, including:

  • Nominated for the Golden Leopard at the Locarno International Film Festival
  • Won the CineVision Award at the Munich Film Festival
  • Special Mention at the San Sebastian International Film Festival

Quotes

  • "I want to live my life on my own terms, not constantly trying to please others." - Manana
  • "Sometimes you have to make difficult choices in order to find true happiness." - Manana

Music / Soundtrack

  • The soundtrack of My Happy Family features a mix of traditional Eastern European music and contemporary tracks that reflect the emotions and moods portrayed in the series.
  • Well-known Eastern European musicians were involved in creating the original score and selecting the songs for the series.