Permanently Temporary

“Having anxiety and depression is like being scared and tired at the same time. It’s the fear of failure, but no urge to be productive. It’s wanting friends, but hating socializing. It’s wanting to be alone, but not wanting to be lonely. It’s feeling everything at once, but feeling paralyzingly numb.”

— Posted anonymously in Sanvello's Anxiety community

"Permanently Temporary" is more than a film about migration; it's a profound exploration of the complexities of identity and belonging in a world rife with prejudice. Drawing inspiration from my own experiences and my dissertation work in Vienna, this film delves into the mental, emotional, and psychological states of a Southeast European migrant in Austria. It examines how war, loss, and systemic societal issues shape and reshape the human spirit.

Miška, the protagonist, embodies the struggle of many migrants. The film's first part exposes the visible traumas of war—loss of life, destroyed homes, and persistent battles against bureaucracy and discrimination. This portrayal is not just a depiction of the past but a reflection of ongoing internal wars that many face.

In Vienna, Miška encounters another form of conflict, an invisible yet equally harrowing one. Bureaucracy, xenophobia, and precarious living conditions reveal the harsh reality of migrant life, starkly contrasting with the city's reputation for social housing. This duality highlights the often-overlooked struggles migrants endure while seeking acceptance and stability.

The film's interdisciplinary approach, weaving political theory, cultural studies, sociology, and visual culture, offers a comprehensive look at the migrant experience. It addresses themes of inequality, social discrimination, and the quest for a sense of belonging. Through Miška's journey, we explore how identity evolves amidst cultural and societal pressures, leading to a deeper understanding of human resilience.

"Permanently Temporary" pays homage to those who leave their homes in search of a better life. It emphasizes the significance of inner identity and the sense of belonging while showcasing the strength and resilience migrants embody. This film is a testament to the power of love and the human spirit to overcome challenges, fostering a deeper appreciation for the diversity and shared experiences that unite us all.

In creating this film, I aimed to blend socio-psychological, biographical, and fictional elements to craft a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. It is an anti-war statement that underscores the need for empathy, understanding, and peace in an increasingly divided world. By exploring the "permanently temporary" state of migrants, the film seeks to illuminate the profound impact of migration on individual identities and collective consciousness.