🎬🎬𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 (𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟖)
‘Consequences’ (2018): A Poignant Slovenian Drama of Identity and Self-Acceptance
In the grim confines of a juvenile detention center in Ljubljana, Consequences (2018), or Posledice, emerges as a powerful Slovenian coming-of-age drama that delves into themes of identity, toxic masculinity, and the journey toward self-acceptance. Directed by Darko Štante in his feature debut, the film is heralded as Slovenia’s first LGBT-related cinematic work, starring Matej Zemljič as Andrej, a troubled teenager, and Timon Šturbej as Željko, a charismatic but manipulative gang leader. Premiering at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Consequences delivers a raw, emotional story of a young man grappling with his repressed desires in a hostile environment where vulnerability equates to danger. With its unflinching performances and uncompromising storytelling, the film serves as a haunting reminder of the cost of living authentically in a harsh world.
A World of Violence and Identity
Consequences centers on Andrej (Matej Zemljič), an 18-year-old sent to a juvenile detention center after a series of reckless behaviors, from dropping out of school to clashing with friends and family. In this prison-like environment, governed by unwritten rules, Andrej quickly learns that survival hinges on strength, alliances, and adherence to the brutal code of the crowd. He is drawn to Željko (Timon Šturbej), a charismatic yet dangerous leader of a group of delinquents who control the facility’s underground dynamics. Initially, Andrej seeks to prove himself by joining in acts of violence and crime, from debt collection to weekend robberies outside the center.
However, as his bond with Željko deepens, Andrej discovers that his feelings transcend friendship, revealing suppressed desires for love and intimacy. In a hyper-masculine world where weakness is a fatal flaw, Andrej faces a wrenching internal conflict between fitting in and embracing his true self. As Željko’s manipulation becomes evident and betrayal looms, Andrej stands at a crossroads: continue down a path of self-destruction or find the courage to accept his true identity. The film skillfully builds tension, leading to a haunting conclusion that leaves viewers reflecting on the consequences of societal pressures and self-denial.
Powerful Performances and Cinematic Style
Directed by Darko Štante, who drew inspiration from his experience working in Slovenian juvenile detention centers, Consequences offers a raw and unflinching look at the harsh realities of incarcerated youth. Shot by Rok Nagode, the film uses real locations in Ljubljana, paired with a pulsating Slovenian/Serbian hip-hop and trap soundtrack, to create a vivid, immersive, and unsettling atmosphere. While some critics, such as Variety, noted occasional uneven pacing due to its episodic structure, the cinéma-vérité style and authentic settings keep the film grounded and compelling.
Matej Zemljič shines as Andrej, delivering a nuanced performance that captures the innocence and turmoil of a teenager torn between the desire for acceptance and his true identity. His portrayal, especially in the emotionally raw climactic scenes, was praised by The Film Stage as “one of the most devastating of the year.” Timon Šturbej, as Željko, embodies a character who is both magnetic and menacing, his subtle manipulation leaving viewers uncertain whether he harbors genuine affection for Andrej or merely exploits him. The chemistry between the two leads creates a relationship that is both intense and unstable, serving as the heart of the film.
Themes of Masculinity and Self-Acceptance
Consequences is not just a story of queer love but a profound commentary on toxic masculinity and the impact of societal prejudice. The film exposes how the hyper-masculine environment of the detention center—and broader Slovenian society—forces young men like Andrej to suppress their identities to survive. Štante explores Andrej’s vulnerability as he is drawn into a cycle of violence and crime to gain Željko’s approval, only to realize that such acceptance comes at a steep cost. The film also sheds light on larger social issues, such as the inefficiencies of the juvenile justice system and the stigma faced by queer youth, with scenes of Andrej sleeping on the streets of Ljubljana after being rejected by his family evoking the plight of homeless queer youth.
While praised for its bold approach to sensitive topics in a conservative country like Slovenia, Consequences has faced some criticism. Some IMDb reviewers argued that the film lacks emotional depth or relies too heavily on violence, making Andrej’s queerness feel like a plot device at times rather than a fully explored theme. Others, like Culture Fix, lauded its fresh and provocative handling of the tension between masculinity and queer identity.
Reception and Legacy
Consequences premiered at TIFF 2018 in the Discovery section and later screened at the Slovenian Film Festival, where it won multiple awards, including Best Director, Best Actor (Zemljič), Best Supporting Actor (Šturbej), the Audience Award, and the Slovenian Film Critics’ Award. The film earned positive reviews for its intense performances and raw aesthetic, with an IMDb rating of 6.9/10 and acclaim from Cineuropa for the nuanced performances of Zemljič and Šturbej. However, some critics, like The Hollywood Reporter, noted that the script lacks depth and occasionally veers into sensationalism, particularly in international markets where it was marketed primarily to LGBT audiences.
As Slovenia’s first cinematic exploration of queer themes, Consequences marked a significant step forward for LGBT representation in Eastern European cinema. Its authenticity, rooted in Štante’s experience in juvenile detention centers, offers a stark portrayal of youth abandoned by family and society. Available on platforms like iTunes, Amazon, and Kanopy, the film has reached a global audience, resonating with viewers who connect with its themes of identity and resilience.
Why You Should Watch
Consequences is a must-see for those who appreciate emotionally charged coming-of-age dramas and stories that explore identity in challenging environments. The powerful performances by Matej Zemljič and Timon Šturbej, combined with Darko Štante’s authentic direction, create a film that is both heartbreaking and thought-provoking. Unafraid to tackle difficult themes—from toxic masculinity to societal stigma—it serves as a potent commentary on the pressures young people face when striving to live authentically.
Stream Consequences on platforms like iTunes, Amazon, or Kanopy. For those who enjoy similar films, consider exploring The Wild Boys (2017) or Moonlight (2016) for more stories of coming-of-age in queer contexts. As Andrej confronts the consequences of his choices, Consequences reminds us that the journey to self-acceptance is often a painful battle—but one profoundly worth fighting.
