Slovenian Director Kukla Prepares ‘Good girl’ for International Release, Exploring Balkan Identity and Queerness
VENICE, ITALY – Slovenian director Kukla is poised to release her second feature film, “Good Girl,” following a competitive screening at the Sarajevo Film Festival. The film delves into themes of identity, femininity, and queer experience within the complex socio-political landscape of the Balkans, offering a unique perspective distinct from Western narratives.
“Good Girl” centers on a trans woman named Fantasy, whose presence sparks a questioning of societal norms and personal truths among a group of young women. Kukla, born Katarina Bogdanovic and nicknamed “Kukla” (meaning ”doll” in Macedonian) during her childhood, draws heavily from her own experiences navigating a multi-cultural identity shaped by roots in North Macedonia, a childhood in Slovenia, and current residence in Belgrade, Serbia. The film’s exploration of identity resonates particularly now as conversations around inclusivity and depiction gain global momentum.
Kukla reflects on her upbringing, noting the xenophobia she faced in slovenia during the late 1990s and early 2000s. “My national identity was drowned in shame,” she explains. “I speak perfect Slovenian, but when they heard my mother speaking, there was a lot of bullying. So,we just weren’t accepted as a community.” She observes a shift in Slovenian culture, describing the emergence of a diaspora subculture and her interest in the “fluidities of identity,” which are central to the film’s narrative.
“Fantasy is not afraid of her vulnerability, but also not afraid of her power,” Kukla states.”I wanted to include this Balkan queerness in my film, which is not dependent on Western queerness. I think we have our own version of it.” The director emphasizes Fantasy’s agency, highlighting her role in demonstrating the diverse expressions of femininity and truth.
Kukla also points to a striking contradiction within Balkan society: “It’s very transphobic, homophobic and misogynistic place, yet her DMs are full of straight men with families.” This observation underscores the film’s critique of societal hypocrisy and the lack of genuine acceptance for trans individuals.
“Good Girl” is produced by Lija Pogačnik, Barbara Daljavec and Vlado Bulajić for Slovenia’s December, and is being sold internationally by Totem Films. The project was first reported by the Hollywood Reporter.
