David Lynch and Bob Dylan Inspire Serbian Mining Village Film

A new Serbian film finds its haunting story in a surprising place. “Sun Never Again” draws from a Bob Dylan song famously covered by David Lynch. Director David Jovanović blends surrealism with stark realism to depict life in a polluted mining community.

The project began with Lynch’s 2013 cover of “Ballad of Hollis Brown.” Jovanović was captivated by the song’s bleak, visual storytelling. He then visited a real Serbian mining village, confirming the song’s themes were tragically universal.

From Folk Song to Cinematic Reality

The film follows a young boy named Dule. His father, Vid, refuses to abandon their home near a contaminating coal mine. According to Jovanović, the villagers’ real-life struggles mirrored the surreal song lyrics.

Many residents felt trapped by their circumstances. They were like frogs in boiling water, the director noted. Leaving everything behind was not a simple choice for them.

Capturing a Surreal Landscape

The film’s visual style mixes magical realism with gritty detail. Jovanović and cinematographer Mladen Teofilović studied Czech photographers and Paul Thomas Anderson’s work. They aimed for a naturalistic approach with poetic flourishes.

The local community became essential to the production. Villagers worked as cast and crew, digging graves and cooking meals. Their participation was key to the film’s authenticity and success.

The film “Sun Never Again” demonstrates how universal struggles can inspire profound art. This unique project bridges American folk music and European realism. The resulting story offers a poignant look at resilience and home.

Thought you’d like to know

What is “Sun Never Again” about?

It is a Serbian film about a boy living in a mining village. His father refuses to leave their polluted home. The story explores survival and family in a harsh environment.

Who directed the film?

David Jovanović directed “Sun Never Again.” The 29-year-old filmmaker was inspired by a Bob Dylan song. David Lynch’s cover of that song was the direct catalyst.

Where was the movie filmed?

It was shot in a real Serbian mining village. This was the same village where the director spent time as a child. Local residents participated heavily in the production.

What was the villagers’ reaction?

They were grateful to be seen and heard through the film. They also said the filming process helped them escape their reality. The premiere was attended by the community.

What inspired the film’s visual style?

The director studied photographers Josef Sudek and Josef Koudelka. He also repeatedly watched Paul Thomas Anderson’s “There Will Be Blood.” The goal was a naturalistic yet poetic look.