"Playing House" is a short documentary animated film blending comedy and drama.
Inspired by the life of Sergei Parajanov, it portrays a vivid celebration at his home in Tbilisi. Parajanov entertains his guests with food, music, and dance, dressing them in colorful, distinctive costumes that reflect his artistic flair.
Beneath the joy of the gathering, the looming presence of the authorities adds tension. Their goal is to disrupt the event and arrest him, revealing the challenges he faced during his lifetime. The story culminates in the revelation of Parajanov’s terminal illness, portraying his death as an escape into the magical world of his childhood memories.
The film draws heavily from the recollections and photographs of Georgian photographer Yuri Mechitov. His acclaimed photo album, "Sergei Parajanov: Chronicle of a Dialogue," served as a reference for the film’s visual elements, inspiring the character designs and set compositions.
Scripted by renowned animation writer Vladimir Geller, "Playing House" delves into the life and creative philosophy of Parajanov. It examines his relationships with family, neighbors, and fellow artists, highlighting his unbreakable connection to art and his appreciation for nature’s beauty.
The film combines handcrafted 3D sets, built like miniature stage designs, with digitally animated collage-style characters — offering a visually rich and emotionally resonant portrait of an artist whose legacy continues to inspire.
Producer: Susanna Khachatryan
Director: Aleksei Ermolayev
Co-director: Lusine Chergeshtyan
Scriptwriter: Vladimir Geller
Art Director: Tigran Arakelyan