The debut from director Sarra Tsorakidis follows a painter approaching her 40th birthday and reeling from a breakup. A difficult professional job offers crucial insights into her personal life, a reminder that the only way out of the woods is going through them.
About the Movie & the Screenings
"Ink Wash", the debut of co-writer and director Sarra Tsorakidis, will be officially premiered as part of the DISCOVERY selection presenting new international directors and the future of world cinema at Toronto International Film Festival, with the support of the Romanain Cultural Institute in New York. With the tender scope of director of photography Radu Voinea’s lens and Hărnuț’s subtle yet captivating performance, Tsorakidis lays bare a character who discovers her inner strength and moral values in a country overwhelmed by corruption and, in doing so, paves an uncharted path for people who understand that the only way out of the woods is to go through.
INK WASH | WORLD PREMIERE @ TORONTO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, September 5-15, 2024
Romania, Greece, Denmark | 2024 | 1h30m | Romanian
Director: Sarra Tsorakidis
Producer: Anca Puiu
Co-producers: Nicos Moustakas & Katrine Dolmer
OFFICIAL SCREENIGS | Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Tuesday, September 10 @ 09:45 AM
Wednesday, September 11 @ 04:00 PM
Thursday, September 12 @ 07:00 PM
Saturday, September 14 @ 11:50 AM
A mural painter by profession, Lena (played by Ilinca Hărnuț, also the film’s co-writer) is turning 40 and faced with all the classic questions that come with being a woman of a certain age. Reeling from the dissolution of a long-term relationship (and an ex-partner who has moved on in the blink of an eye), Lena is particularly vulnerable. Disillusioned and heartbroken, Lena leaves Bucharest for a job at a dilapidated brutalist hotel, under new ownership, in south-western Romania. But, to paraphrase Confucius, wherever you go, there you are.
Taking refuge in her work, Lena is surrounded by forests and nature. Initially fearing her feelings, and what’s to come, she leans in and begins to see a new approach to being in this world where — regardless of what is said — no one truly knows what they’re doing. But a dark night of the soul, like everything else in life, can be received as a gift. Plus, if your eyes are open, there are new adventures and people to discover around every bend.
Meet the Director
SARRA TSORAKIDIS was born in Bucharest and studied directing at Romania’s Caragiale Academy of Theatrical Arts and Cinematography. She’s directed the short films "Smoke" (2013), "Ivy" (2018), and "Kaimos" (2020), and has worked as an assistant director on several films by Radu Jude. "Ink Wash" (2024) is her feature debut.
About the Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival returns September 5 – 15, 2024 for its 49th edition — 11 days of Canadian and international cinema; special events and talks with some of the biggest names in film; and TIFF's Industry Conference: a place to connect with film professionals and explore the art and business of cinema. Full program and details HERE.