In the picturesque Sinjajevina plateau of Montenegro, a poignant and powerful story unfolds in the documentary "To Hold a Mountain," directed by Biljana Tutorov and Petar Glomazić. Premiering at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, this film captures the lives of two shepherds, Gara and her daughter Nada, who are fighting to protect their ancestral home from being transformed into a NATO military training ground. This deeply personal narrative not only highlights their connection to the land but also reflects broader themes of female empowerment and environmental activism. For generations, the Sinjajevina plateau has served as a vital space for local shepherds, particularly Gara and Nada, who refer to it affectionately as their "mother." The film chronicles multiple summers spent in the highlands, showcasing the duo's resilience and determination as they navigate the challenges posed by external forces threatening their way of life. The directors spent over seven years documenting the pair, allowing audiences to witness the cyclical nature of life on the mountain—an experience that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. Gara emerges as a compelling figure in the film, often seen riding a white horse, symbolizing her leadership within the community as she rallies locals to oppose NATO's encroachment. "It was clear from the start that Gara was someone we wanted to follow," Glomazić remarked. The filmmakers were drawn to her strength and the deep-rooted connection she shares with the land, which serves as a backdrop for their ongoing battle. Tutorov noted, "It was very clear that they are powered by something, and this is really beautiful. When you have all this hardship, it can also be turned into a power, and this film is a lot about empowerment." As the narrative unfolds, viewers also witness Nada's coming-of-age journey. The film captures her maturation over the summers spent on the mountain, revealing the self-sufficiency and resourcefulness that define her and her mother's life. Together, they embark on a pilgrimage each summer to their mountain home, where they care for their herd of cattle and sheep, living off the land in harmony with nature. This lifestyle not only emphasizes their connection to the land but also serves as a stark contrast to the militarization looming over them. The filmmakers intentionally chose to focus on the summer months, allowing the mountain itself to become a character in the story. By avoiding the winter months, when Gara and Nada migrate to the valleys, Tutorov and Glomazić aimed to capture the beauty and rhythm of life on the plateau. "It was really like painting; we could study and then redo, and we knew the things would come again," Tutorov explained, highlighting how this approach contributed to the film's powerful visual storytelling. The film is not just about the struggle to protect a physical space; it also explores deeper societal issues, such as the connections between militarization and gender-based violence. Glomazić, who hails from Montenegro, noted, "It was really obvious that this parallel between militarization and violence against women are connected. From patriarchy, it’s all coming. And then the presence of military there, in the land, in the mountain they call mother." The documentary sheds light on the economic models surrounding common land use, emphasizing the importance of respecting traditional lifestyles that have existed for centuries. "We have to let people do what they are doing, and what they did through centuries," Glomazić remarked, underscoring the need for sustainable practices in land management. With its Sundance premiere, "To Hold a Mountain" marks an important milestone for both Tutorov and Glomazić, who expressed their gratitude for the platform to share this impactful story. Symbolically, the film's launch in the mountains of Utah resonates with its origins in Montenegro, creating a bridge between cultures and issues. "The simple things we show in our film—related to the destiny of our life, to our existence, about care and love—are the most important thing, and they are universal," Glomazić stated, hoping that audiences around the world will find common ground in the struggles and triumphs of Gara and Nada. The film's powerful narrative not only showcases the beauty of the Sinjajevina plateau but also serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting for one's rights and protecting the environment. Tutorov emphasized the film's hopeful message, stating, "It’s very powerful and very rare in a documentary to see the end of a battle. Today, when we all start to really have doubts in institutional democracy, it shows that it’s worthwhile to fight for some small things and to be brave, both in intimate life and publicly." For those interested in witnessing this remarkable story, "To Hold a Mountain" will have several screenings as part of the Sundance Film Festival, including: - 2:30 p.m., Jan. 29, Megaplex Redstone 4 - 3:15 p.m., Jan. 30, Broadway Centre Cinemas 6 - 12:45 p.m., Feb. 1, Holiday Village Cinemas 2 This film not only brings attention to a local struggle but resonates with global audiences, emphasizing the universal themes of love, resilience, and the fight for justice in the face of adversity.