After two wars, Chechnya is haunted by memories of devastation and upheaval. But today it has become a visiting place for celebrities. A busy port with a growing infrastructure and one of the largest mosques in Russia. The documentary Chechnya: Contrasting Republics resolves this dichotomy. Throughout the film, we witness the Republic of Chechnya searching for a new identity in the 21st century, but determined to remain rooted in the tradition it was founded on.
In an area once rife with conflict and ruin, a five-star hotel is home to international figures such as action star Jean-Claude Van Damme. In a state-of-the-art music recording studio, you can let your creativity run wild. Dancers dutifully rehearse their moves for the upcoming festival. Fashion house Firdaws offers luxurious evening gowns and wedding dresses, attracting the attention of an exclusive female clientele from all over the world.
Each of these businesses is steeped in Chechen values and religious practices. According to Islamic belief, dancers are not allowed to touch their partners or look into their eyes. Adorned with elaborate tiaras and studded with precious stones such as diamonds, silver and gold, these times are a clever mix of tradition and modernity.
Beneath the glamorous exterior lies a more depressing and gloomy reality. We see throngs of students devoting their young lives to the rigorous study of the Qur’an, and hear one of the children warn the pagans of their safe path to hell.
Chechnya: The Contrasting Republic perfectly blends the two parts to illustrate a region in transition.
