British Romanian filmmaker and academic Rachel Taparjan is set to premiere her debut feature film, Something Familiar, at the prestigious Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival (CPH:DOX) on March 17, 2024. The film, which marks a significant milestone in Taparjan’s career, explores themes of trauma, identity, and the complex bonds of motherhood through a deeply personal lens.
“The film is really about alchemizing trauma and overcoming trauma,” Taparjan explained in a recent interview.
In Something Familiar, Taparjan embarks on a journey with a woman named Mihaela as they search for her birth mother in Romania. This quest leads them to the orphanage where both women were adopted, allowing for an exploration of their intertwined histories. Throughout the film, Taparjan’s family trauma emerges as a central theme, revealing a legacy that profoundly affects both her and Mihaela.
The documentary uniquely blends personal narrative with creative storytelling, featuring scenes where Taparjan casts actresses to portray her mother, whom she never knew. This artistic choice serves to illustrate her exploration of familial absence and the archetypal mother figure.
Taparjan’s approach to filmmaking emphasizes a trauma-informed practice, ensuring the emotional well-being of all participants. “I insisted on a trauma-informed practice,” she noted, highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment for Mihaela and her sister during the filming process. This commitment to ethical filmmaking sets Something Familiar apart in the landscape of documentary cinema.
As she navigated her dual role as both director and subject, Taparjan faced numerous challenges. “Being a director and a subject in a film is quite a unique challenge,” she stated, reflecting on the emotional complexities involved. Despite the hurdles, she found strength in the process, gaining confidence as the filming progressed.
Taparjan’s insights also touch on the impact of cultural narratives, particularly how Western media has historically portrayed Romanian orphans. “Most of the Western media influences how that country is looked at and how the children are thought about,” she asserted. Through her film, she aims to challenge these stereotypes and present a more nuanced view of Romanian identity.
The film’s title, Something Familiar, was chosen for its poetic resonance and multiple interpretations. Initially titled One of Us, the final title reflects the deeper themes of belonging and the search for maternal connection. “I wanted something more poetic with multiple meanings,” Taparjan explained.
The narrative’s exploration of trauma extends beyond personal experiences, delving into intergenerational effects. “There is this intergenerational, almost mysterious, transmission of trauma,” Taparjan remarked, emphasizing the film’s focus on how trauma can affect future generations.
Taparjan’s documentary not only showcases her artistic vision but also serves as a critical commentary on the complexity of familial relationships. By blending personal storytelling with broader social themes, Something Familiar invites viewers to reconsider their understanding of trauma, identity, and the power of narrative.
As the film prepares for its world premiere, Taparjan’s journey as a filmmaker continues to unfold, marking an important entry into the realm of documentary storytelling. Through her unique lens, she hopes to inspire others to reflect on their own narratives and the stories that shape their identities.
