A State in a State traces the construction, disruption, and fragmentation of railroads in the South Caucasus and Caspian regions, observing how these transport infrastructures have come to materialise the fragile political borders that re-emerged after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The film revolves around the scenes of delay and waiting that constitute cargo mobility, countering optimistic narratives about the New Silk Road and examining how the iron foundation of connectivity is used as a weapon of exclusion and geopolitical sabotage.

Credits: The film is developed in artistic-scientific collaboration with Dr. Evelina Gambino, Margaret Tyler Research Fellow in Geography at Girton College, University of Cambridge. Research & Script: Tekla Aslanishvili / Evelina Gambino Music: Ani Zakareishvili / Nika Pasuri Cinematography: Nikoloz Tabukashvili / Tekla Aslanishvili Typography: Dato Simonia Editing: Tekla Aslanishvili Field recordings: Viktor Bone Sound mastering: Irakli Shonia Colour: Sally Shamas