Lake Paliastomi

Synopsis

"Lake Paliastomi" (პალიასტომი), directed by Otar Iosseliani and released in 1964, is a Georgian drama film starring Sergo Zakariadze. The film is set in the picturesque surroundings of Lake Paliastomi in western Georgia and explores themes of human connection, tradition, and the interplay between nature and society. Through its poetic storytelling and striking visual composition, it delves into the lives of local fishermen and villagers, portraying their struggles and resilience amidst changing social landscapes. The narrative unfolds with a focus on character-driven events, reflecting on the cultural heritage and environment of the region while emphasizing universal human emotions and relationships.

Cast

• 

  Sergo Zakariadze

  Ivane

• M. Jibladze

  Niko

• 

  Dudukhana Tserodze

  Eka

• 

  Megi Tsulukidze

  Countess Qetevani

• G. Chachava

  Tsira

• 

  Zeinab Botsvadze

  Pati

Reviews

"Lake Paliastomi" is regarded as a significant work in Georgian cinema, showcasing Otar Iosseliani's early directorial insight and Sergo Zakariadze's compelling performance. Although the film has limited international exposure and does not hold ratings on mainstream review aggregator sites such as Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, it holds a cherished place in retrospective critiques of Soviet-era Georgian films. Critics often praise its lyrical cinematography and authentic depiction of rural life. Film scholar analyses highlight the film’s subtle yet evocative narrative style, noting its resistance to conventional Soviet cinematic tropes of the time. One retrospective review in a Georgian film archive website describes it as "a poetic exploration of humanity fused with nature's endurance." However, its slow pacing and minimalistic plot have led to mixed receptions among audiences seeking more dynamic storytelling. On IMDb, "Lake Paliastomi" has a modest user rating averaging around 6.5/10, indicating a favorable but niche appreciation primarily among enthusiasts of classic Soviet cinema or regional Georgian cultural narratives. Overall, the film is celebrated for its artistic qualities and regional significance rather than widespread popular acclaim.