Film Synopsis: Acasa, My Home

In the wilderness of Europe’s largest urban delta on the edge of Bucharest, the Enaches – a Roma couple and their nine children – live a resolutely independent life in a self-built hut on the lakeshore, following the rhythm of the seasons. But social services, conservationists and the police have other plans.

When the family’s home is turned into a national park, they are forced to move from their unconventional rural idyll into the cramped confines of a city apartment. Fishing rods are replaced by smartphones, while afternoons rambling in the long grass chasing geese and pigs are now spent in school. The uprooting proves as brutal as the racism they face from landlords, neighbours and the authorities.

Unfolding over three years, Acasă, My Home captures the family’s struggle to adapt to urban society and maintain their connection to each other and themselves. With nuance and compassion, this lyrical documentary challenges viewers’ conceptions of home, family, nature, civilisation and happiness.

Content notes:
Contains scenes of police violence, racist intimidation, violence towards an animal.
Contains discussions of or references to abortion, drug use and homelessness.

Screened as part of TOAFF20