Three Kilometres to the End of the World

The film revolves around a simple plot but intricately weaves each element to create a compelling story set in rural Romania, specifically in the beautiful Danube Delta.

However, the soothing and picturesque landscapes conceal ugly human stories. One character humorously criticizes his fellow countrymen, saying it's a beautiful country but with not-so-nice people.

The film explores rural Romania's general attitude towards homosexuality, interweaving themes of corruption, superficiality, over-religiousness, and power abuse. These elements paint an authentic and shockingly real image of Romanian society in the 2020s (and in Europe!).

The filmmaking is masterful and never excessive. One of the most appreciable aspects of this film is the director's ability to create a powerful work without resorting to over-the-top methods, grandiloquent camera angles, or epic music.

The film is exactly what it needs to be, contrasting with many recent cinematic works that tend to overdo it to impress. It's a reminder that, in the end, the simplest meals, made with the best ingredients, are often the best. Just as the best chefs are identified by their ability to create exceptional basic dishes, Emanuel Parvu achieves wonders with a simple yet powerful film.

"3 Kilometers Until the End of the World" is a must-see for those who crave good cinema as much as they crave a good book on a Sunday afternoon.