Story Overview

Time of the Gypsies, directed by Emir Kusturica, tells the haunting and poetic story of Perhan (Davor Dujmovic), a young Romani boy living with his grandmother in Romania. Perhan exists between reality and dream, caught in his inner world and the passionate love he feels for Azra (Sinolicka Trpkova). Gifted with mysterious telekinetic powers that allow him to move objects with his mind, he stands apart from those around him.

His life takes a dramatic turn when the wealthy and manipulative Ahmed (Bora Todorovic) lures him away with promises of curing his ill sister Danira (Elvira Sali). Convinced to leave his home behind, Perhan follows Ahmed to Italy, hoping for a better future. However, he soon discovers a harsh and exploitative underworld where innocence is traded for survival.

As Perhan struggles within this new reality, he clings to a single dream: to earn enough money to return home, reunite with his loved ones, and build a life with Azra. At the same time, he searches desperately for his sister, who has disappeared after being taken away for medical treatment. Blending magical realism with stark social commentary, the film explores themes of identity, love, exploitation, and the fragile boundary between hope and despair.