Tengiz Abuladze (1924-1994) was an influential Georgian director, a prominent figure in Soviet cinema. His work is renowned for its use of metaphor and allegory, often employed to explore themes of justice, truth, and tyranny.

He is most notably remembered for his masterpiece film trilogy: *The Plea* (Molba, 1967), a poetic work based on classical texts; *The Wishing Tree* (Natvris Khe, 1976), a fresco of Georgian rural life; and particularly *Repentance* (Monanieba, 1984, distributed in 1987), his most celebrated and controversial film. This powerful allegory on Stalinist totalitarianism and historical memory won the Grand Prix Spécial du Jury at Cannes, earning him international recognition.

His style is distinguished by profound humanity, strong symbolic value, and the ability to tackle complex moral issues, making him a unique and courageous voice in the cinematic landscape.