THE ECCENTRICS Georgian Cinema Film Screening
Saturday 18. October at 16:30 - 17:45
FOMO Secret Cinema, Tbilisi
Online ticket sales has ended
Eldar Shengelaia's THE ECCENTRICS (1973) celebrates individuality in a society that demanded conformity. But what makes it truly special is how it manages to do so with laughter rather than bitterness.
The two lead characters maintain their individuality and dignity despite the absurd rules of an imposed system. Shengelaia's obvious affection for human quirks is wonderful to watch.
On the surface, it's a satirical comedy about oddball dreamers in a provincial town. But bubbling just beneath is a sly critique of Soviet bureaucracy, conformity, and the absurdity of everyday life under socialism.
At the time of production, open criticism of the Soviet system was risky. Shengelaia managed to smuggle biting social commentary into a film that could pass censorship because it was "just a comedy." For many Georgians, this turned the film into a subtle act of resistance, a collective wink that reinforced cultural pride and resilience.
Even today, THE ECCENTRICS stands out as one of the most beloved films in the Georgian canon, watched across generations, and is still quoted today.
Presented in the original Georgian language with English subtitles.
FOMO Secret Cinema • Bazari Orbeliani. Enter via Atoneli St above Carrefour and take the stairs on your left as soon as you walk in to L2, 0105 Tbilisi, Georgia
