Patriotic Stories: I made a documentary film "14 prepreka" (14 Barriers)

The documentary follows Marijan on a quest that is both a physical journey and a spiritual one. He climbs a steep, concrete path to a large cross overlooking the Shrine of Our Lady of Aljmaš. This path, with its fourteen stations, is symbolic of the Way of the Cross and the many burdens we carry in life. For Marijan, who is a triple amputee, the climb is a powerful metaphor for the immense physical and emotional obstacles he has overcome since being severely wounded in the war. As the director, I wanted to capture his journey in a way that was raw and honest, showing how he began with a sense of hopelessness. But through his unwavering faith, love, and the support of his friends, he found a way forward. The film, to me, is a story of forgiveness, acceptance, and finding purpose. It is a mirror reflecting the "barriers" we all face, both physical and mental. 

I set out to create the documentary film 14 prepreka (14 Barriers) with a deep, personal connection to its themes. As a veteran myself, my goal was to tell a story that was not only patriotic but, most importantly, deeply spiritual. The central message of the film, which I believe is its most significant part, is one of faith and forgiveness. It's the story of Marijan Almaš, a severely disabled Croatian war veteran and a man whose life is a testament to the power of a forgiving heart.
WATCH FILM (English subtitles)

The film's most powerful scene and central metaphor is Marijan's climb up a steep path, symbolic of the Way of the Cross. This journey is not just physical; it's a profound spiritual act. It shows how, through his unwavering faith, he finds the strength to forgive his enemies, much like Jesus did. This message of forgiveness is what I believe gives the film its enduring power and what sets it apart. It’s a message that speaks to the heart of what it means to heal from profound trauma.

Activism, Friendship, and Healing

Beyond the spiritual journey, the film is also a story of actively fighting against the debilitating effects of war. I wanted to show how Marijan combats depression and PTSD, two of the biggest struggles for war veterans dealing with post-war trauma and heavy injuries. He doesn't succumb to his pain; instead, he fights it with activism and a relentless pursuit of a fulfilling life. We see him swimming, writing poetry, and driving his wheelchair for kilometers around his town. This isn't just about survival; it’s about thriving. His incredible network of friends is a testament to the importance of community in the healing process.

The film serves as a vital tool for my fellow veterans, offering hope and a model for overcoming immense obstacles. It shows that despite immense physical and mental burdens, one can find a new purpose through activism and staying connected with friends. For young people, it's a powerful lesson in resilience, patriotism, and the importance of active engagement in one's life. It teaches them that even after facing the toughest of challenges, there's always a path forward, and that active resistance against despair, coupled with forgiveness and faith, can lead to a truly meaningful life. The positive reception of the film has been a confirmation that this message of hope, faith, and active healing is one that resonates with everyone.

Bringing History to Life for a New Generation

For me, one of the most important aspects of this film is its use as an educational tool for young people. It is a part of a larger program I am involved in through the Veterans' Center for Social Development (BCDR) in collaboration with the Ministry of Croatian Veterans and Ministry of Science and Education in Croatia. We use the film to introduce students to the reality of the Croatian War of Independence through the personal stories of those who lived it. My aim is to present a more authentic and human side of the war, moving beyond the often-politicized portrayals. Marijan Almaš's story, as I captured it in the film, helps students understand the profound sacrifices made by veterans and the lasting impact of the war on individuals. I believe the film teaches them about patriotism, but also about the universal importance of resilience, kindness, and personal conviction. It’s a way to connect the younger generation to a recent, but often misunderstood, part of our nation's history.
Watch Trailer

The feedback I've received for 14 prepreka has been incredibly rewarding. Audiences and critics have been overwhelmingly positive, and I've heard so many people praise its deeply moving and inspiring message. People have commented on its raw honesty and its ability to touch hearts without being overly dramatic. Marijan's own infectious optimism and his ability to smile despite his circumstances have been highlighted as the film's most powerful element. I always intended for it to be a film that transcends the military context to deliver a universal message about the human capacity for endurance and the importance of faith and community in overcoming life's most formidable challenges. It has been an honor to see the film shown at various festivals and to be a central part of presentations and lectures in educational settings, further cementing its importance as a document of both individual and collective resilience.