“The Stone” – a black comedy about two Eastern European fortune hunters, Jelena and Nadezhda. One is on the verge of marriage and faking a pregnancy, while the other has just been widowed and is suspected of having caused her husband’s death.

The story taps into a trend that was widespread in the post-Soviet region when I was growing up in the 1990s and early 2000s: the idea that beautiful women should seek out older millionaires to secure a “happy” life. Thereby, the film reflects the theme and the stylistic elements of the Hollywood classic “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”.

The plot unfolds through a series of episodes that humorously depict the two friends’ backstories, their relationship, and their emotions – friendship, envy, and rivalry – and lead to controversial situations. Unusual encounters ensue, revealing contrasting approaches to life and having fateful significance.

Planned to be shot in black and white, the film possesses a somewhat naive yet slightly sarcastic character. Grotesque figures and portrayals blend with a documentary-style, naturalistic approach, playing with the “scripted reality” format.

Costumes, camera angles, narrative flow, and music evoke a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of classic cinema. Dance and musical elements provide accompaniment; the film is underscored throughout by the classic waltz “The Blue Danube”, which also plays a distinct narrative role.

A heartfelt thanks goes to cinematographer Jevgenija Rubakova, actress Janina Ahh, and my neighbor – a true natural talent – Tommi Tulpe!