Documentary 'Brothers in Arms' reveals stories of Serbs who defended Croatia

The documentary "Brothers in Arms" is set to unveil a crucial, yet often overlooked, chapter of the Croatian War of Independence: the profound commitment of ethnic Serbs who chose to defend Croatia.

Directed by Goran Maršalek and written by Tanja Belobrajdić, the film delves into the heart-wrenching decisions and unwavering loyalty of individuals who prioritized their homeland, Croatia, over ethnic affiliations. These are not just soldiers; they are individuals who faced immense pressure, discrimination, and even violence for their choice to stand with Croatia.

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If I were in Slovenia, I would defend Slovenia; if I were in China, I would defend China. I stayed in Croatia and I defend my Croatia.

One of the film's most compelling narratives is that of Ranko Čučković, a Croatian war invalid who, despite being severely wounded, embodies the film's central theme: "Neither blood nor nation, but homeland." His words, "If I were in Slovenia, I would defend Slovenia; if I were in China, I would defend China. I stayed in Croatia and I defend my Croatia," encapsulate the spirit of these defenders.

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That boy was special. Whenever they asked him who killed his parents, he answered: 'You!' They hit him in the chest and kept repeating: 'Who killed your parents?', and he, his chest already blue, then black from the beating, stubbornly replied: 'You! You!'... Even though he was aware that his life literally meant nothing and that any, even the slightest resistance, would lead to death…

The film also brings to light the harrowing experiences of Željko Ilić Šeki, a survivor of Serbian concentration camps whose parents were killed by a JNA shell. His defiant response to his tormentors – "You! You!" – when asked who killed his parents, speaks volumes about his unwavering stance and the deep injustice he endured. Such stories, including that of Goran Kitić, a Serb who joined the Croatian Defence Forces (HOS) and was later brutally murdered, challenge the simplistic narratives of the war and highlight the complex realities faced by those caught in the conflict.

"Brothers in Arms" is more than a historical account; it is a vital act of remembrance and recognition. By giving voice to these Serbian defenders, the film not only corrects the historical record but also fosters a deeper understanding of national unity and sacrifice. It is a powerful reminder that patriotism transcends ethnicity, and that the defense of Croatia was a shared endeavor, involving individuals from all backgrounds who considered Croatia their true home.

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You! You!