Filmografija/filmography

Popis filmova u kojima je Stanka glumila, onih koje je režirala, itd. 
List of films in which Stanka starred, those she directed, etc.

SELEKTIRANI FILMOVI /Selected Films

Ova sekcija obuhvaća najvažnije i najuspješnije filmove u mojoj karijeri: one koji su bili službeno prikazani na značajnim festivalima, nagrađivani ili prepoznati od strane struke i publike. Ti radovi predstavljaju ključne prekretnice mog autorskog puta i odražavaju moj najreprezentativniji filmski izričaj. / This section features the most significant and successful works in my career: films that have been officially screened at notable festivals, awarded, or recognized by industry professionals and audiences. These projects represent key milestones in my artistic journey and showcase my most representative cinematic expression.

  • Ubojite misli (Battle Thoughts), short – 2006 – The devastating consequences of the war (1991-1995) in former Yugoslavia seen through the reactions of a dog. Focusing on landmines, a major issue in Croatia since the Homeland War, the film highlights their deadly legacy, lingering fear, and lasting human-animal bond.
  • Spavanje i sanjanje (Sleeping and dreaming), short – 2006 – The film is a beautifully simple yet deeply touching one-shot exploration of love, family, and quiet everyday moments. A young woman, armed with the first camera she ever received as a gift, playfully teases her mother, who is dozing on the couch, and her dog, who is also napping in her bedroom. The camera moves gently, capturing the warmth of the home, the intimacy of small gestures, and the quiet joy she finds in those she loves. Through her lens, she celebrates them—not in grand statements, but in the subtle poetry of stolen moments, where love is felt in the way light falls on a sleeping face, a barely perceptible smile, or the rhythmic rise and fall of a resting pet’s breath. The film is a testament to how even the simplest acts of observation can be acts of love.
  • Ljetno jutro (Summer morning), short – 2021 – Comedy about sensual moments that take place in the heart of the village, with the charms of nature and rural life.
  • Dobar tek! (Bon Appétit!) short – 2022 – The film takes place on a quiet, sunlit patio, where a nine-month-old baby and a five-year-old child sit side by side, surrounded by an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Their tiny hands eagerly reach for the colorful feast before them—shiny red apples, juicy pears, plump strawberries, crunchy radishes, and even a sliced ​​lemon.
    The older child bites into an apple with delight, its crunch echoing through the room, while the baby grabs a strawberry with clumsy but determined fingers and smears its red juice across her chubby cheeks. The baby sucks on a slice of lemon, her eyes widening with the tartness, only to giggle excitedly and reach for more.
    Their joy is infectious, their appetite boundless, as they eat each piece as if it were the sweetest treat in the world. The scene remains one of pure, innocent pleasure – two children, lost in the simple happiness of eating.
  • Zagrebačko podne (Noon shot), short – 2022 – Every day at noon, Stjepan Možar fires the historic cannon from Lotrščak Tower, continuing a Zagreb tradition dating back to January 1, 1877, initiated by City Councilor Đuro Deželić. Originally placed at the Hydrological Institute, the cannon has a long history, remaining silent during WWI until 1928. The current version, the fifth, was gifted by the JNA for the 1987 Universiade. Through Možar’s daily ritual, the film captures both the man behind the tradition and the enduring legacy of this iconic event.
  • Link, short – 2022 – A fantasy art film that uses a unique editing technique to merge black and white with color, dividing each frame in half to symbolize the contrast between childhood and adulthood. The guiding idea is the unbreakable connection with childhood and the connection with the child within ourselves. The girl the main character meets in her photo club is revealed to be a doll, brought to life only outdoors, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
  • Kruh (Bread), short – 2022 – A contemplative exploration of the remarkable journey of a single food item, a loaf of bread, revealing how it reflects the often overlooked passage of time and human indifference. Through its silent journey, the film subtly addresses themes of neglect, transience, and the silent cycle of life.
  • Vračarin sin (Son of a Prophetess), short – 2022 – Through targeted rawness, achieved by the deliberate absence of music and with elements that seem to emerge from a dream, the film underscores the immense pain of the main character. He resists this pain, despite the haunting reality of his situation. The film explores the complexity of grief, loss, and denial.
  • Šest plakanja (Six Tears), short – 2023 – A satirical thriller drama exploring the complex interplay of love and death. The film follows individuals who reflect on their experiences, both painful and joyful, intertwining their emotions and perceptions of these two profound aspects of life.
  • Nedišući (Without breathing), short – 2024 – Based on the poem of author Stanka Gjurić, this short film visually explores the desire for freedom and the complexity of inner emotions in a constantly changing world. Through the symbolism of water and light, the film portrays nature as a silent witness to climate changes that shape our inner states. Using poetic language and evocative imagery, the film invites viewers to reflect on their connection to the planet and themselves. This meditative visual poetry reflects the inner struggle between attachment and liberation, emphasizing the fragility of human existence in the ongoing quest for peace and healing.
  • Ubi me politička korektnost (Political correctness killed me), short – 2024 – An experimental film that satirizes political correctness on film, exploring its impact on creativity and authentic storytelling. The film contextualizes its critique through the depiction of the physical consequences of gun use, maintaining a moral distance from violence. Through the absence of a clear narrative structure, it emphasizes the sterilizing effect of political correctness on artistic expression and the narrowing of space for true reflection. Featuring only one protagonist and enhanced by unique editing techniques, it deepens its thematic criticism of the constraints placed on art.
  • Iz New Yorka, s ljubavlju (From New York, with love), short – 2024 – This short film shows the hustle and bustle of the city and its inhabitants, and at the same time the poetics of urban life in one of the world’s most famous metropolises, New York.
  • Zaokret (Twist), short – 2024 – In a seemingly quiet neighborhood, an exhibitionist’s act triggers unexpected reactions. As curiosity clashes with shock, boundaries between provocation and fascination blur. This is a darkly comedic tale of misunderstandings and hidden desires.
  • Maskirani oblak (Masked cloud), short – 2025 – “Masked Cloud” is documentary that follows the talented, famous Croatian guitarist Srđan Bulat, during the summer, the challenging year of 2021, when the measures against the COVID-19 pandemic were at their peak.
    Srđan’s last name, which means “cloud,” becomes a symbol of the times we live in, where masks have become a daily reality. Srđan uses his music as a means of connection and expression. The film follows his performances, revealing how art can break through barriers, even in the most difficult times. Through Srđan’s eyes and the sounds of his guitar, viewers will experience the power of music that unites people, provides hope and brings joy, despite physical obstacles and social distance.
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FILMOVI S LIMITIRANOM DISTRIBUCIJOM /Films with Screenings (Limited Distribution)

U ovu kategoriju spadaju svi ostali filmovi koje sam snimila, a koji nisu imali značajniju vidljivost na festivalima. Unatoč tome, ovi radovi čine temelj mog opusa i svjedoče o mom kontinuiranom radu i eksperimentiranju u filmskoj umjetnosti. / Here are films that have had at least one official festival screening or public presentation but have not achieved broader festival circulation or significant impact. These works demonstrate ongoing engagement and development, bridging the gap between my most prominent projects and other productions.

  • Nemoralna čitanka (Immoral manual), short – 2013 – A witty and playful take on the art of deception, this film humorously explores the tricks and tactics of committing adultery while remaining undiscovered. Through sharp storytelling and clever irony, it delves into the absurdity of secrecy, desire, and human nature.
  • O požudi i srcu (Lust and the heart), short – 2013. – A short art film with surreal elements, exploring romantic themes in an unusual way. A loving couple watches a film about two pairs of partners discussing their love and sex lives: one couple in their twenties, the other in their later years. Despite their age difference, the couples’ perspectives only differ in one crucial aspect. After the screening, the real-life couple seems to imitate the characters they watched, humorously questioning the dynamics of male-female relationships and reflecting on love’s complexities.
  • Lavograd (Lioncity), short – 2015 – A film for both adults and children: For months, lions have taken over the city of Chack, spreading fear and chaos. But with the help of trees and flowers, a brave boy and his loyal dog embark on a magical journey to reclaim their home and restore peace to the city.
  • Perfect Tattoo, short – 2017 – A young woman embarks on a train journey, only to encounter mysterious and unsettling sounds. As the strange occurrences intensify, one question haunts her: is this reality or just a bizarre illusion? Trapped between fear and uncertainty, she is drawn deeper into the unknown, unable to escape its grasp.
  • Ritam /Rhythm), short – 2019 – An ironic take on two generations of women engaged in their daily rituals-one typing on a smartphone, the other knitting a sweater. Though divided by time and technology, their hands move in almost identical rhythms, subtly highlighting the unexpected similarities between past and present.
  • Jednom davno (Once upon a time), short – 2020 – Animation for children. The mother reads to the children a book written according to a true story.

RANI RADOVI / Early Works (2007 – 2009)

Ova sekcija sadrži moje prve filmske pokušaje iz razdoblja 2006. do 2010. godine, nastale u uvjetima bez digitalnih platformi za distribuciju. Ti filmovi su eksperimentalni, no predstavljaju ključnu fazu u mom stvaralaštvu i početke mog autorskog izraza. / This category includes all other films I have created that have not received official distribution or substantial festival exposure. Although not publicly screened or awarded, these works form the foundation of my oeuvre and reflect my continuous experimentation and artistic practice.

  • Jedanaest (Eleven), short – 2007 – A visionary short film that, through the simple act of a two fingers walking portrays a looming dystopian future. In just 11 shots, it reflects humanity’s relentless pursuit of power and wealth, wars on all fronts, technological conflicts, and the dark fate that was foreseen-and ultimately came true.
  • Strast za knjigom nije nestala, short – 2007 – Stanka’s dog, Hooper, lies on the floor, seemingly “reading” her books, while Stanka whispers her own poems in voiceover. Through this intimate moment, the film explores the unspoken bond between a poet and her loyal companion, blurring the line between words and emotions.
  • Lukino proročanstvo (Luka’s prophecy), short – 2007 – A six-year-old boy draws the future with crayons-an ill-fated love between a man and woman, destined for tragedy. As his sketches come to life, the film explores fate, innocence, and the mysterious connection between a child’s imagination and inevitable destiny.
  • Sretni brod (Happy boat), short – 2007 – Spending time with children at an Arabic primary school in Alexandria, Egypt, during an art class where they freely express themselves through drawing. Initially shy, they soon relax, their faces lighting up with smiles and confidence. This connection reminds Stanka, the author of this film, of a boat journey into the unknown.
  • Dvorišni prozor (Courtyard window), short – 2007 – A middle-aged voyeur watches through a window, believing he sees a woman lying on a bed. Or so it seems. As the film unfolds, we realize it’s just a Barbie doll. Yet, through his binoculars, in close-up, the doll appears as a beautiful sleeping woman, blurring illusion and reality.
  • Susret  (Sudden encounter), short – 2007 – The women in the neighborhood receive a surprise that they either look forward to or avoid.
  • Aleksandrijski pjesnici (Alexandrian poets), short – 2007 – Children from Kawmeya Language School in Alexandria, Egypt, read poems translated into English, written by Croatian poet and filmmaker Stanka Gjuric. As they recite her verses, their voices bring new life to her words, bridging cultures and highlighting the universal power of poetry.
  • Akvarel (Aquarelle), short – 2008 – The poem “Aquarelle” describes a deep connection with nature, the resilience and inner strength of humans in facing life’s difficulties. Developing resilience through exposure to adversity, moving away from the past and focusing on personal growth and exploration. Overall, this poem explores themes of displacement, longing, resistance, and personal transformation, and describes the poet’s experience of being caught between different places, dreams, and emotions, and highlights her finding strength, constancy, and beauty, despite surroundings by adversity.
  • Zvuci života (The sound of life), short – 2008 – Croatian poetess Stanka Gjuric tries to capture the essence of the elements of the nature, even with a trick her camera affords her- the sights seeing, the sounds, the emotions, the seeming timelessness cannot be captured as a whole. All she can do is be enamored with the ineffability of it all.
  • Bast, short – 2009 – Filmed in Alexandria, Egypt, “Bast” follows street cats scavenging for food among the trash. Through striking imagery, the filmmaker compares each cat to ancient Egyptian deities. Once revered, these sacred figures now exist caged in the city’s zoo, reflecting a stark contrast between past and present.

NOVI ZAVRŠENI FILMOVI / Completed, Awaiting Premiere

Ovdje predstavljam projekte na kojima trenutno radim, pripremam ili koje sam nedavno dovršila, a još čekaju svoje prvo javno prikazivanje ili premijeru. Ova sekcija daje uvid u moj trenutni umjetnički smjer i nove radove koji će uskoro biti predstavljeni publici. / Here I present projects currently in development, preparation, or recently completed but awaiting their first public screening or premiere. This section offers insight into my current artistic direction and new works soon to be revealed to audiences.

  • Nicanje (Emergence), short – 2025 – “Emergence” explores how modern social and economic systems, shaped by technology, affect our identities and relationships. Through a reflective lens, the film questions whether we are trapped in a virtual world, removed from genuine human connections. Focusing on the future of younger generations, it invites viewers to consider how society can prioritize humanity over profit and control. It examines the impact of technology on modern social structures, identities and relationships. It raises critical questions about the disconnect between individuals in a digitally driven world and the erosion of authentic human interactions. The film provides a platform for reflection on the dynamics of societal development, it challenges dominant economic and social systems that prioritize profit and control over human well-being, encouraging a re-examination of what it means to be human in an increasingly technology-mediated world.
  • Poništiti (Undo), short – 2025
  • Kužiš? (Ya get me?), short – 2025

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Imdb Gluma na filmu i u TV seriji

  • Đavolji raj (That summer of White Roses) – as White Rose (1989.)
  • Veter v mreži” – as woman from dreams (1989.)
  • Školjka šumi – as barmaid (1990.)
  • Vrijeme za… (Time for…) – as daughter in law (1993.)
  • Dobar dan (Good day) – as Divna, TV show (1999.)
  • TV sudnica (TV court) – as woman in divorce proceedings from rich husband, TV show (1999.)
  • Tu (Here) – as nurse (2003.)
  • S one strane (From the other side) – as an old man daughter (2016.)
  • Koja je ovo država (What a country) as Faruk’s wife Enisa (2018.)
  • Kad zvoni? (When it rings?) – as nurse, TV series (2005.)
  • Link- self

    From Večernji list

    From Večernji list

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  • Filmski kritičari o Stankinim filmovima:
    Na festivalu ‘Filmski Front’, sa svojim filmom ‘Spavanje i sanjanje’ osvaja SPECIJALNU NAGRADU ŽIRIJA. Redatelj Milutin Petrović, jedan od članova žirija, na pitanje novinara: „S obzirom na šarolikost, od amaterskih do profesionalnih radova, jeste li kao član žirija imali neki problem u njihovu vrednovanju?“, odgovorio je: „Moje gledanje na film je takvo da nemam tu vrstu problema. Meni su, recimo, u vrlo sličnoj ravni Andy Warhol i Howard Hawks. Evo, na Festivalu su sve tri nagrade dobili ljudi koji nisu profesionalci i nadam se da će neki od njih to postati. Svo troje su napravili filmove koji su neusporedivo bolji od svega što sam vidio posljednjih godina. To znači da je nadahnuće kao neki duh koji je došao odnekuda, a on ne bira hoće li ići kod nekoga tko ima ili nema diplomu“.​​​​​​​​​​​​
    Na festivalu ‘AluCine’ u Torontu (Kanada) gdje 2007. osvaja nagradu Honorable Mention Award za svoj film ‘Ubojite misli’, u objašnjenu za dodjelu nagrade, Andres La Rota (jedan od članova žirija) je rekao je: “Film “Ubojite misli” je poetičan, duboko emocionalan i potresan.”
    FILMSKI NET
    FILMSKI NET 
    Film ‘Spavanje i sanjanje’, na međunarodnom festivalu Električni štakori sanjaju video snove u Sloveniji (Celje), gdje osvaja prvu nagradu u kategoriji debitanta. Predsjednik žirija Mark Požlep povodom dodjele nagrade je izjavio: „Plakao sam i smijao se istovremeno, gledajući „Spavanje i sanjanje“, dok je pak jedan od organizatora Celjskog festivala Peter Zupanc rekao: „Svaki put kad budem loše volje samo ću pogledat Stankin film i odmah ću se osjećati bolje“. FILMSKI NET
    – S filmom ‘Ubojite misli’ s kojim Stanka Gjurić 2007. osvaja 1. nagradu na 5. Festivalu kratkog filma Mostar, članica međunarodnog žirija Valentina Mindoljević prokomentirala je dodjelu nagrade Stanki: „Odluka je bila jednoglasna, odnosno svi su se članovi žirija složili da film Stanke Gjurić znatno odskače svojom originalnošću. Sve drugo je već viđeno“.

    Film Critics on Stanka’s Work:
    At the Film Front festival in Novi Sad (Serbia), Stanka’s film “Sleeping and Dreaming” received the Special Jury Prize. Director Milutin Petrović, a member of the jury, responded to a journalist’s question: “Considering the diversity, from amateur to professional works, did you, as a jury member, have difficulty evaluating them?”
    He answered:
    “The way I see film, I don’t have that kind of problem. To me, Andy Warhol and Howard Hawks exist on a very similar level. For example, all three awards at this festival went to people who are not professionals, and I hope some of them will become professionals. All three made films that are incomparably better than most of what I’ve seen in recent years. That tells me that inspiration is like a spirit that comes from somewhere, and it doesn’t choose whether to visit someone with or without a diploma.”

  • At the AluCine festival in Toronto (Canada), where in 2007 she received the Honorable Mention Award for her film “Battle Thoughts”, jury member Andres La Rota said in the award statement: “‘Battle Thoughts’ is poetic, deeply emotional, and haunting.”

  • At the international film festival Electric Rats Dream Video Dreams in Celje (Slovenia), Stanka’s  film Sleeping and Dreaming won First Prize in the Debut Category. The jury president Mark Požlep stated upon awarding the prize: “I cried and laughed at the same time while watching Sleeping and Dreaming.” One of the festival organizers, Peter Zupanc, added: “Every time I feel down, I’ll just watch Stanka’s film and I’ll instantly feel better.”
    With her film “Battle Thoughts”, Stanka won First Prize at the 5th Mostar Short Film Festival in 2007.International jury member Valentina Mindoljević commented on the decision: “The decision was unanimous – all jury members agreed that Stanka Gjurić’s film stands out significantly for its originality. Everything else felt already seen.                                                                
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