Dea Kulumbegashvili’s “Beginning” Explores Religious Persecution

The film “Beginning,” directed by Dea Kulumbegashvili, has emerged as a powerful exploration of religious persecution, set against the backdrop of a remote village in Georgia. Premiering in 2020, the film delves into the psychological horror faced by a Jehovah’s Witness community under threat from Orthodox Christians. Its impact has resonated with audiences, especially members of the Palmerston North Film Society, where the film was recently featured.

A Tense Start

The narrative opens with a harrowing attack on a prayer house, where Pastor David, portrayed by Rati Oneli, engages his small congregation in a discussion about faith and sacrifice. He references the biblical story of Abraham, which sets a chilling tone as the film reveals the underlying tensions in a community marked by religious diversity and conflict. The film’s focus quickly narrows to the emotional and psychological toll the violence takes on David and his family, particularly his wife Yana (Ia Sukhitashvili) and their son Giorgi.

Yana’s turmoil escalates when a man, masquerading as a police officer, visits her under the guise of investigating the prayer house’s destruction. This man, linked to the local Orthodox Christian elite, embodies the systemic abuse and complicity that permeate the community. His invasive and degrading questions about Yana and David’s private lives reveal the psychological manipulation at play, leaving Yana in a state of fear and desperation.

Grim Reality of Persecution

The film does not shy away from depicting the brutal reality of Yana’s experience. During a subsequent encounter, she is violently assaulted by the same interrogator, a scene that starkly illustrates the horrors of sexual violence intertwined with religious persecution. The film’s pacing, while slow and deliberate, enhances the palpable tension and despair, forcing viewers to confront the harsh realities of the characters’ lives.

“Beginning” has been praised for its arthouse qualities, with audiences noting the remarkable performances by the cast. One viewer remarked, “I liked the arthouse quality of the film and I commend the actors for such great performances.” The absence of a musical score heightens the film’s emotional impact, allowing the stark imagery and powerful performances to resonate deeply.

As the Palmerston North Film Society continues its program, this week’s screening features the horror film “Pulse,” which taps into fears surrounding technology in the Y2K era. Interested viewers can join the society by attending sessions at Cinema 2 at Event Cinemas on Wednesdays between 5:30 PM and 5:50 PM. Films are scheduled to begin at 6 PM. For more information on the upcoming 2025 program, visit: nzfilmsociety.org.nz/palmerston-north.