Hey everyone!

I'm thrilled to share another SXSW 2025 interview with you.

This time, I spoke with Thea Gajić & Slavko Sobin from the film Surviving Earth.

Surviving Earth is a poignant drama based on a true story about Vlad, a talented harmonica player, and counselor who fled the conflict in Yugoslavia and rebuilt his life in Bristol. As he rekindles his passion for Balkan music by forming a band with his friends, unresolved traumas begin to resurface, jeopardizing his relationships, especially with his daughter, Maria.

Buy tickets for Surviving Earth's SXSW screenings here.

I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

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Chapters

• 00:15 - Meeting Thea and Slavko

• 00:37 - Synopsis of Surviving Earth and Screening Details

• 01:09 - Inspiration Behind the Film

• 02:08 - Slavko's Preparation for the Role of Vlad

• 03:45 - Thea's Perspective on the Stigma of Addiction

• 05:20 - Mental Health in Balkan Culture

• 06:17 - Balancing Lightness and Darkness in Vlad's Character

• 07:29 - Connecting with Vlad

• 07:59 - Balkan Culture and Music

• 08:28 - Exploring Vlad's Complexity

• 09:20 - Capturing the Nuances of Vlad

• 09:35 - Thea & Slavko's Collaboration Process

• 12:48 - Language and Identity in the Film

• 15:27 - Challenges and Reflections

• 20:04 - Core Message and Audience Takeaways

• 24:01 - Conclusion and Farewell

• 25:41 - Plugs