LILY enters a fragile space between reality and illusion. Directed by Erika Kolobanova, the visual project explores solitude, addiction and the emotional cost of searching for an escape.
At the centre of the story is a lonely woman driven by a desire for love and connection. Her search is represented by the lily, a symbol of purity and longing. However, what she eventually encounters is not the flower, but a snake. In this moment, the search for purity transforms into an encounter with betrayal.
Between Reality and Illusion
Throughout LILY, the boundaries between the protagonist and her surroundings slowly begin to disappear. Reality becomes unstable, while the distinction between what is real and artificial grows increasingly unclear.
A powerful wind becomes an important force within this transformation. With her face hidden beneath fabric, the protagonist gives herself over to its movement and allows the unknown to guide her.
However, the environment that appears to offer escape gradually becomes another form of confinement.
Her body begins to merge with the space around her. Her hair becomes part of the surrounding frame, creating a visual metaphor for surrender and transformation. Eventually, the boundaries between the self and the outside world begin to disappear entirely.
The Search Becomes the Answer
At its core, LILY asks whether the pursuit of absolute purity can ever lead to freedom.
The project does not offer a simple answer. Instead, the search itself becomes central to the story. The lily remains an image of what the protagonist desires, while the snake exposes what may be hidden beneath that desire.
Moving between isolation, longing and surrender, LILY creates a visual reflection on the human need for connection — and what can happen when the search for escape becomes another form of entrapment.
Credits: Director — Erika Kolobanova; Talent — Milena Surmava; DOP — Deniss Skrobins; 1AC — Timofejs Udalovs; Gaffer — Aleksis Zariņš; Best Boy — Alberts Vitols; MUA — Anna Maria Abrosimova; Hair — Nikita Puskarjovs; Styling — Elizaveta Komarova; Props — Katrīna Vilgerte; Edit/VFX — Reflectiwe; Colorgrade — Beatrise Helpeja; Music/Sound Design — Killmeunison.
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