In a small apartment in Skopje, a group of free-minded individuals find themselves sharing a household. When Dita’s partner Suada learns she has a terminal illness, Dita suddenly becomes a mother responsible for raising two young daughters overnight. Subsequently Toni, who once reveled in a carefree nightlife, is unexpectedly thrust into the role of their legal guardian. The latest feature by Goran Stolevski from North Macedonia, Housekeeping for Beginners depicts the journey through which these strong-willed and independent characters navigate their new cohabitation dynamics at the crossroads of tragedy and comedy, ultimately forming a seamless family unit. The handheld camera intimately captures the chaotic reality of the household, intentionally omitting artificial lighting or staged elements. Occasionally, there are exchanges of dialogue that deviate or clash, further highlighting the unique nature of this household. These interactions accentuate the vibrant portrayal of the everyday routines of this unlikely family. Anamaria Marinca, winner of the Best Actress award at BAFTA, delivers a performance that is both calm and commanding, effectively guiding the heart of the narrative. (Karen PARK)