Sandbag Dam () is a 2025 drama film directed by Čejen Černić Čanak. The film follows Marko and Slaven living in a small Croatian village as they reunite and rekindle their love. A co-production of Croatia, Slovenia and Lithuania, the film was selected in the Generation 14plus section at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, where it had its world premiere on 16 February 2025.
It is also selected for 39th Teddy Award, and will compete for Best Feature Film.
Synopsis Set in a village endangered by rising rivers, this story of the film follows Slaven as he returns home for his father's funeral. He rekindles a relationship with his childhood friend, Marko, a young athlete who was his teenage love and the reason his father expelled him from home. As they contemplate reuniting, they must confront their past choices and navigate family constraints.
Cast
Lav Novosel as Marko Andrija Žunac as Slaven Leon Grgić as Fico Franka Mikolaci as Petra Tanja Smoje as Vanca Alma Prica Filip Šovagović
Production
Sandbag Dam directed by Čejen Černić Čanak and written by Tomislav Zajec has Marko Brdar as cinematographer and Domas Strupinskas as composer. It is produced by Ankica Jurić Tilić in association with Kinorama in Croatia, Perfo Production in Slovenia and Tremora in Lithuania. The film was funded by Lithuanian Film Centre - international minority co-productions.
Release
Sandbag Dam had its World premiere on 16 February 2025, as part of the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, in Generation 14plus.
In December 2024, The Open Reel acquired the international sales rights of the film.
Accolades
Award Date Category Recipient Result Berlin International Film Festival23 February 2025 Crystal Bear for the Best FilmČejen Černić Čanak Teddy Award for Best Feature Films
References
External links
Sandbag Dam at Berlinale Sandbag Dam at The Open Reel Sandbag Dam at Slovenian Film Database