(Georgian: და მერე გათენდა), internationally released under the title And the Sun Rises , is a gripping 2022 Georgian drama film directed, written, and co-edited by acclaimed filmmaker Dito Tsintsadze . Clocking in at a tight 90 minutes, the movie explores the claustrophobic and toxic dynamics within a dysfunctional family unit. The literal translation of the Georgian phrase "Da mere gatenda" means "And then morning broke" or "And then the sun rose," symbolizing a painful transition from a night of darkness, secrets, and manipulation into the harsh glare of daylight.
(internationally released as And the Sun Rises ) is a haunting 2022 Georgian psychological drama film directed by acclaimed auteur Dito Tsintsadze. Exploring the claustrophobic depths of emotional abuse, generational trauma, and manipulative control, the movie serves as a poignant window into contemporary Georgian independent cinema. Translating from Georgian to mean "And then dawn broke" or "And the sun rises," the title reflects a stark contrast against the dark, suffocating reality endured by its characters. Key Information: "Da Mere Gatenda" Director & Screenwriter Dito Tsintsadze International Title And the Sun Rises Release Year Country of Origin Runtime 1 hour 30 minutes Primary Cast Temiko Chichinadze, Andro Chichinadze, Anya Chipovskaya Production Companies Runaway Films, Vineyard Films Narrative Synopsis: A Web of Domestic Tyranny
(internationally released as And the Sun Rises ) is a compelling 2022 Georgian drama film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Dito Tsintsadze. The film offers an intimate, intense exploration of toxic family dynamics, generational trauma, and emotional manipulation set in modern Georgia. Driven by stellar performances from its central cast, the film delivers a gripping claustrophobic atmosphere that uncovers the dark realities of domestic co-dependency. Key Film Specifications Specification Original Title Da mere gatenda (და მერე გათენდა) International Title And the Sun Rises Release Year Director & Writer Dito Tsintsadze Running Time 1 hour 30 minutes Country of Origin Production Companies Runaway Films, Vineyard Films Plot Overview: A Cage of Manipulation
Da Mere Gatenda subverts the traditional cinematic trope of a helpless disabled person. Sandro's paralysis does not limit his power; it is his primary weapon. He plays the victim to induce guilt, demands constant attention, and uses physical fragility to mask his emotional malice. 2. The Cycle of Domestic Abuse Da Mere Gatenda
Da Mere Gatenda is the bridge between the old world and the new. He reminds us that in the race to the future, we must not forget the rhythm of where we came from.
Serves as the crucial catalyst, bringing external friction into the toxic dynamic.
: Masterfully shot by Gela Chinchaladze , the visual style relies heavily on shadow and intimate camera framing. The camera remains uncomfortably close to the actors, capturing every micro-expression of spite, fear, and manipulation. (internationally released as And the Sun Rises )
The story centers on Nika, who lives in a run-down suburban house near Tbilisi that is slated for sale. Nika's primary responsibility is caring for his paralyzed father, Sandro, who is both physically dependent and emotionally abusive.
Nika’s girlfriend, whose unannounced arrival disrupts the fragile status quo.
Nastya's arrival introduces an element of the outside world, exposing the absolute toxicity of the father-son dynamic. Rather than backing down, Sandro turns his manipulative glare toward her, exposing cracks in the young couple’s relationship and testing the limits of Nika's loyalty. Cast and Performances Key Information: "Da Mere Gatenda" Director & Screenwriter
Gatenda is currently teasing his upcoming project, tentatively titled Rumored to feature collaborations with heavy hitters in the Afro-house scene, the project promises to be a journey through the night—from the dusk of struggle to the dawn of triumph.
"Da mere gatenda! Da mere gatenda! Sale ka dhakkan khol ke rakh dunga!" (Give me my boulder! Give me my boulder! I will open your lid, you bastard!)
The story focuses on (played by Andro Chichinadze), a young man bound by a grueling sense of filial duty. Nika is the sole caregiver for his paralyzed father, Sandro (Temiko Chichinadze). However, Sandro is far from a helpless patient; he is an abusive, deeply bitter patriarch who historically terrorised his family. Even confined to his bed, Sandro holds immense psychological power over his son, weaponising guilt, anger, and frailty to keep Nika trapped.
Impact and Legacy Da Mere Gatenda’s influence extends across literary circles, activism, and public discourse. Her work has inspired emerging writers to explore hybrid forms that combine personal memoir with historical inquiry. In community forums and educational settings, her narratives have served as catalysts for dialogue about reconciliation, reparative justice, and cultural preservation. By insisting upon the necessity of remembering—accurately, compassionately, and with critical awareness—she contributes to a cultural climate in which memory becomes a tool for accountability rather than a mechanism of nostalgia.