Dubravka Turić is a shining star in the movie world, showing off the amazing film talent coming from Croatia. Her path from an ambitious film student to an acclaimed writer and director is a story of relentless passion and growing artistic skills. Her first major film, Traces, selected as Croatia's entry for the International Feature Film category at the 2024 Academy Awards, marks a significant milestone in her career. Publications like Indiewire and Variety have already taken notice, placing Traces among the top contenders in its category. 

Turić fell in love with movies when she was a child, thanks to the captivating films of Claude Chabrol. As a young girl, she would stay up late to watch these movies, which sparked her love of films and brought her family closer through their shared enjoyment of movies. Her journey, embedded in years of editing experience, laid the groundwork for her unique storytelling approach. She excels in blending visuals and sounds to tell stories that are close to her heart and reflect her own life.

Her filmography is nothing short of extraordinary. Turić movies, from the award-winning Belladonna to her newest hit, Traces, tell stories that touch your heart. Her films often explore themes of loneliness, alienation, and the continuous journey of self-discovery. Belladonna is especially notable, as it won a major award, earning the prestigious Golden Lion for Best Short Film at the Venice Film Festival. This accolade, amplified by enthusiastic praise from jury president Jonathan Demme, underlines Turić's talents in filmmaking.

Turić's experiences at various film festivals, including Sundance and Cannes, broadened her exposure and enriched her artistic vision. Encounters with stars like Robert Redford and Edward Norton provided her with invaluable insights and motivation.

Traces, Turić's first feature film, shows off the special way she tells stories. The film delicately narrates a story about coping with loss, recalling the past, and the inherent desire to make a meaningful impact. The main character, Ana, dives into themes of personal past, loss, and reclaiming identity. Turić cleverly uses the skin condition vitiligo to visually show Ana's inner battles, blending real-life experiences with her unique way of storytelling. 

The movie also looks into old Slavic symbols and burial traditions. These aren't just part of the background of Ana's story; they also reflect Turić's interest in synchronicity – how things seem to be connected in meaningful ways. These elements are seamlessly integrated into the film, creating scenes that captivate the viewer's attention and make them think.

Making Traces took five years, but Turić's new projects, like a dark comedy and a TV series, are expected to be released quickly. Her love for making movies and her dream of a peaceful life near the Croatian coast show she's a filmmaker with her feet on the ground and big dreams to pursue. 

Turić's movies have earned lots of praise and elicited strong emotional responses from audiences worldwide. Her approach to filmmaking, rooted in personal experiences and a unique narrative style, has already garnered recognition and admiration. As Traces makes its mark on the international stage, it stands as a beacon of Turić's dedication and artistry. 

As the voting period for the Awards approaches, the spotlight intensifies on Traces, a film that not only represents Croatia on an international platform but also shows the artistic journey of Dubravka Turić.