By Will Espero

Habiszti (Just Because!) is a feature documentary from Hungary directed by György Dobray. It is a history lesson about the Roma holocaust of World War II. The story is told through the work and effort of a group of ballet students preparing for a theatrical performance of the tragic and horrific event. Attila, a teen dancer and rapper, is a key character who shares his thoughts about racism and prejudice he and others still face today for being Roma or gypsies. His rapping includes messages of vulnerability, confusion, and worth in a modern society where stereotypes and discrimination actively exist.

Attilla’s mom and dance instructor add their viewpoints as the film progresses between Attilla’s personal family life and his practice and rehearsals in the studio. Portions of the actual performance are presented as the atrocities of humans against humans must never be forgotten. Habiszti is in itself a memorial and remembrance of the hundreds of thousands of people who perished and died.

György Dobray

György Dobray, born on March 8, 1942, in Budapest, has led a diverse and fulfilling artistic career. He completed his studies at the Theater and Film Academy from 1961 to 1965, specializing in cinematography. Following this, he embarked on a journey crafting documentaries, short films, and TV projects for Hungarian Television, showcasing his skills.

Transitioning to feature films at Mafilm Studio, Dobray’s work continued to evolve. In 2010, he was honored with the Béla Balázs Award, an acknowledgment of his contributions to the field. Beyond feature films, he’s dedicated his efforts to tackling racism through his works, including his latest film Habiszti (Just Because!).

With a grounded approach, György Dobray’s career stands as a testament to his commitment to meaningful storytelling and addressing societal issues. His contributions have left an indelible mark on both the film industry and the conversations his works inspire.

This documentary ventures into the Roma Holocaust through a unique lens: a choreographer’s endeavor to create a dance production centered around this tragic history. The film converges the art of creation with the poignant narrative of a talented Roma boy, forging a powerful connection between past and present.

By entwining the choreographer’s vision with the boy’s daily life, replete with his dancing and rapping talents, we illuminate the often overshadowed facets of this history. This interplay beckons viewers to reflect on enduring prejudices and discrimination.

The poignant incident during filming, where Attila was attacked, lent unexpected urgency to our mission. It serves as a stark reminder that the Roma community still faces challenges today, emphasizing the importance of understanding history’s lasting impact.

In essence, this documentary strives to intertwine history, art, and resilience into a resonant tapestry. Our aim is to honor the Roma Holocaust’s memory while fostering empathy and a commitment to inclusivity in our audience. Through this unorthodox approach, we aspire to forge a bridge between generations and inspire a more understanding future.

György Dobray

Habiszti (Just Because!) is an Official Selection at the 2023 edition of the Global Nonviolent Film Festival, and it can be watched from September 28 to October 8 on GlobalCinema.online where the Festival is being broadcast. D!