Ekvtime: Man of God 2018

Red Army invasion and Georgia's plan to flee

In February 1921, the Soviet Red Army overran independent Georgia. Facing collapse, the government orders the collection of the treasury and a safe departure to France. Ekvtime Takaishvili is entrusted with this mission and appointed as a guard for the perilous journey.

Ekvtime appointed guardian of the treasury

The authorities officially appoint Ekvtime Takaishvili to collect and protect the national treasures. He accepts the heavy responsibility amid political uncertainty. His role is to safeguard Georgia's heritage during emigration.

Preparation and transport of the treasure to France

The treasury and museum pieces are assembled for transport to France, marking the start of a long exile. Ekvtime leads the operation, navigating security risks and logistical hurdles. The goal is to preserve priceless heritage for future generations.

Life in exile begins in France

In the years after departure, Ekvtime and companions settle in France and endure hardship while continuing to guard the treasure. The work remains tense and exacting as they live far from home. The period covers much of the interwar era.

Facing threats from museums, collectors, criminals, and fascists

The treasure attracts pressure from world-famous museums, wealthy collectors, and criminal and fascist actors seeking to seize it. Ekvtime resists temptations and defects, keeping the collection intact. The narrative emphasizes moral steadfastness under relentless pressure.

Legal battles over ownership and custody

Court disputes and negotiations accompany the protection of the treasure, testing Ekvtime's resolve and legal skill. He defends Georgia's patrimony in legal arenas against conflicting claims. The struggles highlight the complexity of safeguarding national heritage abroad.

Love story with Nino Poltaratskaya

Throughout the emigration, Ekvtime's romance with his wife Nino Poltaratskaya develops, offering emotional support in hard times. Their partnership anchors the personal side of a duty-bound mission. The love story adds warmth to the historical tale.

Nino's companionship and support

Nino stands by Ekvtime as a constant companion, managing daily burdens and reinforcing their shared devotion to the homeland. Their bond illustrates fidelity under pressure and strengthens resolve. The couple's presence deepens the film's emotional core.

Decision to return the treasure to Georgia

After decades in exile, the plan to return the treasure surfaces, signaling a transition from preservation abroad to restoration at home. The narrative builds toward bringing the patrimony back to its homeland. The stakes are both emotional and national.

Return of the treasury to Georgia

Ekvtime ultimately returns the collected treasury to Georgia, completing his mission to safeguard national heritage. The act symbolizes the restoration of cultural patrimony to the homeland. It marks a climactic milestone in the story.

Canonization as Man of God

In 2002, the Georgian Holy Church canonizes Ekvtime Takaishvili and names him 'Man of God.' The recognition elevates him to national hero status and secures his legacy in public memory. The film frames this as the culmination of a lifetime of devotion.