A Journey Back to 1989
As I sat down to watch “The New Year That Never Came” on Netflix, I was instantly transported back to a time that shaped my childhood and the history of Romania. This movie, set just before the Romanian Revolution of 1989, captures the tension, hope, and uncertainty of those days with remarkable accuracy. Bogdan Muresanu does a great job as a writer and director.
A Personal Flashback to 1989
I was about 10 years old when the revolution happened. The memories of that time are etched in my mind, not just because of the historical significance, but also because of the personal experiences that came with it. I remember playing outside with my sister on that fateful morning when Ceausescu fled from the Central Committee building in Bucharest. As we ran inside, the smell of freshly baked cozonaci (a traditional cake) filled the air, and I found my grandmother singing in the kitchen. Her joy was palpable, and when I asked her why she was so happy, she told me that Ceausescu had left and Romania would be free of communism. At that age, I didn’t fully grasp the magnitude of her words, but I could sense the relief and hope in her voice.
The Revolution Unfolds
The days that followed were a whirlwind of emotions. I spent hours glued to the national television with my grandparents, watching the events unfold. The images of people courageously fighting against Ceausescu’s security forces, disguised as terrorists, are still vivid in my mind. I saw people dying, fighting for freedom, and then the dramatic execution of the presidential couple. The sense of peace that followed was a stark contrast to the chaos that had preceded it.
I also remember the conversations with my parents, who were in a larger town at the time. They shared stories of people being fired upon and their panic about my and my sister’s safety. It was a time of fear, uncertainty, but also immense courage and hope.
The Movie’s Impact
“The New Year That Never Came” does an excellent job of capturing the atmosphere just days before and during the first hours of the revolution. The story of the boy who sends a letter saying that his father wants Nicu dead, referring to Ceausescu, particularly resonated with me. It reminded me of a similar incident during a party with my parents’ friends. I had made a bold statement about Ceausescu, and I remember the panic on my father’s face and the amusement of my grandfather. It was a moment that highlighted the fear and tension that permeated everyday life under the regime.
A Blend of Seriousness and Humor
While the movie deals with serious themes, it also manages to infuse moments of humor and humanity. This blend of seriousness and humor is what makes it so relatable and impactful. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is room for laughter and hope.
In conclusion, “The New Year That Never Came” is not just a movie; it’s a journey back to a pivotal moment in Romanian history. It captures the essence of a time when the country stood on the brink of change, and it does so with a perfect balance of seriousness and humor. For anyone interested in understanding the human side of the Romanian revolution, especially now when dictatorship shows again its fangs all over the world, this movie is a must-watch. And for those of us who lived through it, it’s a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage of the Romanian people.
Ink And Reason 