In this sprawling drama, writer-director Bogdan Muresanu wants to remind his fellow Romanians of what it was like to live in a totalitarian state, something people tend to forget whenever they’re unhappy with the flaws of a democratic society.

We’re transported back to Christmas 1989 at the beginning of the revolution that would topple the Ceausescu regime; we follow six characters in Bucharest, among them an actress who’s ordered to appear in a broadcast celebrating the nation’s dear leader.

Never as arresting as intended, but leads up to an effective ”Bolero”-infused finale.

2024-Romania. 138 min. Color. Written and directed by Bogdan Muresanu. Cast: Adrian Vancica (Gelu), Nicoleta Hâncu (Florina), Emilia Dobrin (Margareta Dinca), Iulian Postelnicu, Mihai Calin, Andrei Miercure.

Trivia: Original title: Anul Nou care n-a fost.