Georgian-Swedish filmmaker Levan Akin is already enjoying success with “And Then We Danced,” his acclaimed social drama about a young dancer struggling with the confines of tradition and forbidden love. The film, which premiered in Directors’ Fortnight in Cannes, went on to win three top awards at the Odessa Film Festival, including best film and best actor for Levan Gelbakhiani.

It’s Akin’s third feature after the 2011 Swedish drama “Certain People” and 2015 Swedish fantasy film “The Circle,” produced by Benny Andersson of Abba fame. Akin spoke to Variety about the challenges of dealing with homosexuality in a conservative society, the hope in a new generation and the roles of art and tradition. “And Then We Danced” screens in competition at Sarajevo Film Festival.

Congratulations on the film’s success in Odessa. In view of the subject matter, how do you expect it will perform in Eastern and Southeastern Europe?
Click here to See Full article