The Domino Effects

In order to build up national pride, Rafael, the minister of sport in Abkhazia – a disputed territory that is only partially recognised internationally – decides to hold an world championship in dominos. Today, this typical former Soviet country is a symbol of the frozen conflict which, since the collapse of the USSR, has several times erupted into war. During the war, the Abkhazians surprisingly became passionate domino players. This tragicomic film also follows how Rafael brings his optimism and belief in building the national identity of the unrecognized republic into his relationship with his new Russian wife, Natasha, who does not feel particularly welcome in his country. Their complex marriage is a subtle but precise parallel to the complicated situation in the Caucasus region as a whole. (One World)