Consequences (2018) – A film about rebellious youth and the journey to find oneself
Consequences (2018) is a social psychological film from Slovenia, written and directed by Darko Štante. The film brings a powerful story about rebellious youth, personal identity and the consequences of bad choices.
The central character of the film is Andrej (Matej Zemljič), an 18-year-old boy with an impulsive personality and often gets into trouble. After breaking the law, Andrej is sent to a juvenile detention center. There, he meets Željko (Timon Šturbej), a powerful young man in a group of boys with complicated pasts.
Under Željko’s manipulation, Andrej gradually gets involved in crime, violence and dangerous relationships. What adds to the tension, however, is the complex feelings Andrej has for Željko, an attraction he cannot control, which pushes him into a struggle between his true identity and society’s expectations.
Consequences (2018)
Consequences is not only a film about rebellious teenagers, but also a profound portrayal of the identity, sexuality and social pressures on young people. The film powerfully exposes the cruelty of the correctional system, where boys are forced to follow the law of the jungle and face the brutal consequences of their actions.
In addition, the film is an honest portrait of the difficulties faced by LGBTQ+ youth when trying to find their place in a conservative society. “Since the release of Consequences in 2018, Slovenia has made significant strides in protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. In July 2022, the Slovenian Constitutional Court ruled that defining marriage as between a man and a woman was unconstitutional, paving the way for same-sex marriage to be legalized. The Slovenian Parliament subsequently passed a law allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt children together, effective January 31, 2023.
However, despite the legal progress, the LGBTQ+ community in Slovenia still faces many challenges. According to a 2024 survey by the European Union’s Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), 56% of respondents in Slovenia said they had been bullied, ridiculed or threatened during their school years because of being LGBTQ+. Additionally, 23% said they had undergone “conversion measures” to change their sexual orientation or identity. gender identity.
Consequences (2018)
Regarding the juvenile correctional system, Slovenia has implemented a number of reforms to ensure the rights and reintegration of young people. The education system is organized into three levels: primary, secondary and tertiary. Primary education lasts for 9 years and is compulsory for all children. Secondary education consists of two stages: lower secondary and upper secondary, which provide vocational and academic training. The higher education system in Slovenia includes universities, academies and technical colleges. However, specific information about the current juvenile correctional system is not mentioned in the available sources.
Although Slovenia has made significant progress in recognizing and protecting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, social and cultural challenges remain. Continuing to raise awareness and promote acceptance in society is essential to ensuring the rights and safety of all.”
Matej Zemljič’s performance as Andrej has received much praise for his excellent portrayal of the inner conflict between instinct and social pressure. Timon Šturbej as Željko also makes a strong impression as the dangerous yet charming leader.
The film premiered at the 2018 Toronto Film Festival and received positive reviews for its bold approach, realistic images, and strong message.
Consequences (2018) is a powerful and emotional work about lost youth, desire, and repressed freedom. It is a wake-up call about the consequences of making wrong choices and the consequences of not being true to ourselves.
