As above, so below

Bao Miro joined forces with Igor Smitka to direct this dance film that they describe as a “metaphorical portrait of Bachtale Kale Phrala on their journey to understanding their inner selves via experiencing the outer world.”

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Split into four chapters, As Above So Below shows that Romani culture and heritage have a right to be supported and respected by the art world. As the name suggests - film references that everything in the physical realm reflects itself into the ethereal plane as well.

The film’s four filming locations are rich with metaphorical significance. The first chapter takes place in a metro station in the outskirts of Prague and shows how one adopts the culture of their environment. Messenger-like dog character takes us to the next chapter - the light filled art studio which symbolizes how darkness can be transmuted into light as well as how the craft is being finessed.

Third chapter called “Spiral” is inspired by a quote by Herman Hesse: ”We are not going in circles, we are going upwards. The path is a spiral, we have already climbed many steps.” The final chapter, set in a contemporary art gallery, represents the stoic self-confidence that comes with finding one’s voice.