2.6 / 10 (based on 53 reviews)
Zaustavi vreme is about relationship between two friends when one of them becomes a minister. Vladan Krstic becomes (again) a minister and his life is changing from the root. He is from the real honest man and idealist who has traveled in the villages, believing in the program of his party becomes someone else, entering the chain of behind-the-scenes actions, poltrons, services, forgetting all about himself, everything that was once, friends and attitudes, and what is the most terrible – his family. His wife Nada has a young lover doctor for years, although she still loves Vladan. Their children, Andjela and Boris, have long since been independent. The dynamic life that awaits them because of their fathers new function will cause reversals to everyone and return them to the end of each other. The series clearly shows the intersection of typical Belgrade life today, especially the polarization that was created between rich and poor citizens of the Serbian capital.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Branislav Lecic, Danica Maksimovic, Tijana Curovic, Jana Milic
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 51 episodes, 50-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Zaustavi vreme (2008)
Pevacica (2021)
4.7 / 10 (based on 519 reviews)
None
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Milica Pavlovic, Jelena Grujicic, Milos Timotijevic, Zlatan Vidovic
Creators: Predrag Antonijevic, Natasa Drakulic
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes
Branilac (2021)
7.4 / 10 (based on 455 reviews)
“The Defender,” an nine episode television series is a legal suspense-drama based on high profile crimes that took place in the former Yugoslavia between 1955-1975. The episodes are based on actual events described in both attorney Oliver Injac’s book, “The Great Attorney’s Defenses,” and, Filota Fila’s book, “I Defended the Condemned to Dealth.” Additional cases tried by attorneys Veljko Guberina and Toma Fila complete the series. Each episode searches for both truth and motives from the perspective of the defense attorney who immerse themselves inside the mind, lives and relationships of each protagonist. The series judiciously illuminates details and circumstances on the “How” and “Why” each of the accused stood trial.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Nenad Jezdic, Aleksandar Tadic, Gordana Mitrovic, Tihomir Stanic
Creators: Gojko Despotovic, Jelena Svetlicic
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 9 episodes
Beleznica profesora Miskovica (2021)
7.2 / 10 (based on 647 reviews)
A young journalist Bosko, along with his girlfriend Jelena and best friend Milenko, gets caught up in a conspiracy to obtain a notebook which records unexplained paranormal events.
Genre: Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Main Cast: Momcilo Otasevic, Svetozar Cvetkovic, Milena Radulovic, Irfan Mensur
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 12 episodes
Pet (2019)
7.2 / 10 (based on 1389 reviews)
None
Genre: Crime
Main Cast: Jelena Djokic, Hristina Popovic, Marija Karan, Gala Videnovic
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 11 episodes
Porodica (2021)
7.2 / 10 (based on 2380 reviews)
A family under siege. Not an ordinary family. The former President is facing arrest.
Genre: Drama, History
Main Cast: Boris Isakovic, Mirjana Karanovic, Milan Maric, Vuk Kostic
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 5 episodes
Dug moru (2019)
7.3 / 10 (based on 2027 reviews)
Is the legend about the sea taking human offerings true? Are the two stones with the same sign carved in them to be blamed for all the events, or are the reasons hidden among people who are unaware of their mutual dark secret?
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Main Cast: Dragan Micanovic, Ana Lecic, Vule Markovic, Vesna Trivalic
Creators: Bojan Maljevic, Bojana Maljevic, Goran Gajic
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 24 episodes, 50.0-minute runtime
Dinastija (2021)
2.1 / 10 (based on 162 reviews)
Serbian remake of soap opera Dynasty (1981).
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Ana Savic, Magdalena Mijatovic, Branimir Popovic, Nebojsa Kundacina
Creators: Esther Shapiro, Richard Alan Shapiro
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 61 episodes
In the realm of television, there’s a treasure trove of shows that have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of viewers. Among these gems is the Serbian TV series “Zaustavi vreme” (Stop Time), which debuted in 2008. This show, though perhaps not as widely recognized on the global stage as some of its contemporaries, offers a unique narrative and emotional depth that merit a closer look.
The Premise
At its core, “Zaustavi vreme” is a drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships, the concept of time, and the choices we make that shape our destinies. The series follows the lives of several characters, each intertwined with the others in a web of love, betrayal, and the search for happiness. What sets this series apart is its exploration of the “what ifs” of life, using a mystical watch that can literally stop time, allowing the characters to re-examine their decisions and their consequences.
Character Dynamics
One of the show’s strengths lies in its character development. The characters are not mere caricatures or stereotypes but are instead fleshed out with backgrounds, motivations, and flaws that make them relatable. For instance, the protagonist, who discovers the watch, initially uses it for personal gain but gradually comes to understand the moral implications of his actions. This journey from selfishness to self-awareness is a compelling narrative that resonates with many viewers.
The Reluctant Hero
The protagonist’s evolution is a classic example of the reluctant hero trope, but “Zaustavi vreme” handles it with a fresh perspective. Instead of the overused narrative of instant transformation, the show portrays his growth in a realistic, gradual manner. His initial misuse of the watch’s power serves as a mirror to the everyday temptations we face and the often difficult path toward doing what’s right.
The Supporting Cast
The supporting characters are just as crucial to the story. Each one represents different facets of society and personal struggles. There’s the ambitious career woman torn between her job and personal life, the struggling artist searching for recognition, and the elderly man yearning for a lost love. Their stories intersect in unexpected ways, showcasing the butterfly effect of our actions.
Themes and Messages
“Zaustavi vreme” is rich with themes that provoke thought and discussion. The concept of time, and our control (or lack thereof) over it, is a recurring motif. The show posits intriguing questions: If you could stop time, what would you do? Are certain moments in life predestined, or do we have the power to change our fate?
The Moral Dilemmas
The series does an excellent job of presenting moral dilemmas without preaching. It encourages viewers to ponder the ethics of the characters’ actions and, by extension, their own choices in life. This reflective aspect of the show adds depth to its entertainment value, making it more than just a way to pass time.
The Power of Choices
Another significant theme is the impact of our choices, both big and small, on our lives and the lives of others. “Zaustavi vreme” illustrates how a single decision can have a ripple effect, leading to unforeseen consequences. This theme is beautifully encapsulated in the narrative, reminding us of the weight of our decisions.
Why It Stands Out
In a sea of television shows, “Zaustavi vreme” distinguishes itself through its blend of fantasy and reality, its deep exploration of human nature, and its ability to engage viewers on an intellectual and emotional level. It’s a series that doesn’t rely on sensationalism or melodrama but instead focuses on storytelling and character development.
The Use of Fantasy
The fantastical element of the time-stopping watch is not just a gimmick but a tool to explore deeper philosophical questions. It’s a testament to the show’s creativity and willingness to venture into speculative fiction to tell a story that’s grounded in reality.
Emotional Resonance
The emotional journeys of the characters are portrayed with nuance and sensitivity, making it easy for viewers to empathize with them. Whether it’s the pain of lost love, the struggle to find one’s identity, or the joy of a second chance, “Zaustavi vreme” captures the spectrum of human emotions in a way that feels genuine and moving.
Conclusion
“Zaustavi vreme” is a show that deserves recognition for its thoughtful storytelling, complex characters, and the meaningful questions it raises about life, time, and the choices we make. It’s a series that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on the moments that define us and the paths we choose. In a world where time seems to move ever faster, “Zaustavi vreme” invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey.