My Beautiful Dacia is a heartwarming and informative documentary that explores the rich history and culture of Romania through the lens of its most iconic car - the Dacia. Directed by Jean-Christophe Lie and produced by Julie Paratian and Marie Dumora, the film takes us on a journey across the country, from the bustling cities to the rural villages, to discover the enduring legacy of this beloved automobile.
The story begins with the creation of the Dacia brand in the 1960s, when Romania was under communist rule and in dire need of an affordable car that could be produced locally. We learn how the first Dacia 1100 model was based on the French Renault 8 and how it quickly became a symbol of national pride and ingenuity. Through interviews with former factory workers, engineers, and car enthusiasts, we get a sense of the passion and dedication that went into building the Dacia cars, which were known for their simplicity, durability, and adaptability to Romanian roads and weather conditions.
The film then delves into the social and political context of Romania during the 1970s and 1980s, a time marked by shortages, rationing, and censorship. We see how the Dacia car became a status symbol for the emerging middle class, who used it as a means of escape and mobility. We also witness the democratic revolution of 1989 and the subsequent changes in the Romanian car industry, which led to the privatization of Dacia and its integration into the global Renault group.
Throughout the film, we are treated to stunning images of Romania's landscapes, architecture, and people, all of which reflect the country's complex history and identity. We see the contrast between the modern cities of Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca and the picturesque villages of Maramures and Bucovina, where traditional crafts and customs are still practiced. We also meet some of the colorful characters who make up the Dacia community, from the proud owners of vintage models to the passionate mechanics who restore and modify them.
One of the highlights of the film is the Dacia Parade, a massive gathering of Dacia cars and enthusiasts that takes place every year in Pitesti, where the main Dacia factory is located. We witness the excitement and camaraderie of the participants, who come from all over Romania and beyond to showcase their beloved vehicles and share their stories. The parade also serves as a tribute to the role that Dacia played in the social and cultural life of Romania, and as a reminder of the values of innovation, perseverance, and solidarity that are cherished by the Romanian people.
Overall, My Beautiful Dacia is a delightful and insightful documentary that celebrates the enduring appeal of a car that has become an integral part of Romanian identity. Whether you are a car enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a lover of good stories, this film is sure to captivate you with its warmth, humor, and authenticity. Highly recommended.
My Beautiful Dacia is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes.
It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.
