French documentary in black and white, and in slow motion, “Malanka” narrates a celebration that has taken place over 100 years, the popular festival in Malanka. Unaware of their true nationality, the inhabitants of an area between Ukraine and Russia celebrate in December their strength and their dominion against bears. Animals that are considered kings of the forest, creating suits of straw that represent them. Here opens a passage between the world of the living and the dead, invoking the strength of the past Malankas (unmarried men). (Lara Santos)