Državni posao
Državni posao (2012) is a long-running Serbian satirical comedy television series that delves into the daily routines and interactions of three civil servants in an archive department in Novi Sad. The show, created by and starring Dimitrije Banjac, Nikola Škorić, and Dejan Ćirjaković, is renowned for its short, episodic format and sharp, often cynical commentary on societal, political, and bureaucratic issues in Serbia. It has gained significant popularity for its relatable portrayal of workplace dynamics and its distinctive brand of humor.
Concerns
Disrespect & Rebellion
HighDisrespectful dialogue and rebellious attitudes are central to the show's humor and character dynamics. The main characters consistently engage in verbal sparring, insults, and a general disregard for formal authority and professional norms, making this a pervasive theme.
The characters engage in constant verbal sparring, with Čvarkov frequently insulting Boškić, calling him 'balavac (bezobrazni)' (naughty brat) and 'debilko (maleni)' (little imbecile). Conversely, Dragan Torbica often refers to Čvarkov with derogatory terms such as 'budalčino bačvanska' (Bačka fool) and 'đubre (jedno) bačvansko' (Bačka trash). This continuous exchange of insults and a general defiance of workplace hierarchy are fundamental to the series' comedic style.
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
MediumThe series includes a character identified as part of the LGBT+ community, with narrative elements implying their identity and its reception by other characters. This content is present but not explicitly graphic or a central, explicit plotline, leaning towards implied themes.
Mirko Cemeš is explicitly identified as a member of the LGBT+ community, which the character Dragan Torbica reportedly 'never understood' during their interactions. Furthermore, stories and conversations involving Mirko Cemeš are noted to carry 'strong sexual allusions,' suggesting a subtext of romantic or sexual orientation that is implied rather than overtly displayed.
Violence
MediumWhile primarily a comedy, the show includes references to past violent conflicts and depicts intense, albeit likely comedic or satirical, acts of aggression and threats. Graphic violence is not a central feature, but the underlying themes of conflict and dangerous actions are present.
Dragan Torbica's backstory includes participation in the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s, where he was involved in military actions as part of an anti-aircraft unit. Additionally, a character named Rade Kornjača, after being humiliated, plants a bomb under Čvarkov's chair, and in a later plot development, steals gold and causes the archivists' imprisonment, indicating intense and potentially violent narrative events.
Romance and Sexual Content
MediumThe series features suggestive conversations, boasts about sexual conquests, implied relationships, and mentions of characters' romantic interests. While explicit sexual acts or graphic nudity are absent, the presence of these themes contributes to mature content.
Đorđe Čvarkov frequently brags about his past romantic conquests, including suggestive remarks about having been with Boškić's mother and her sister. Čvarkov also displays 'sexual admiration' for a saleswoman named Vida, whose physical description includes a 'branch tattoo on her lower back,' and he is in competition with another man for her attention. Boškić also had a romance with the cleaner Jagoda Marko for 'material interests'.
Profanity
MediumThe dialogue regularly includes insults and mild to moderate curse words, used frequently in the characters' daily interactions and comedic sparring. While not typically featuring strong expletives, the consistent use of derogatory language is a notable aspect of the show's verbal humor.
Dragan Torbica frequently uses derogatory terms towards Čvarkov, such as 'budalčino bačvanska' (Bačka fool) when irritated, and 'đubre (jedno) bačvansko' (Bačka trash) in more intense moments. Both Čvarkov and Torbica often direct insults at Boškić, including 'Mrš!' (Get lost!), 'đubre malo' (little trash), 'balavac (bezobrazni)' (naughty brat), and 'debilko (maleni)' (little imbecile).
Witchcraft & Occult
MediumThe show introduces occult themes through a supporting character who practices traditional magic. While not depicted graphically, the explicit mention of invoking spirits and specific magical practices establishes this content as present in the narrative.
Žika's mother, Mama Mila, is described as possessing the skill of 'invoking spirits' and practicing 'Vlach magic,' directly introducing occult themes into the series' world. This reference to a specific type of folk magic implies the presence of supernatural or mystical elements, even if not visually emphasized in a horror context.
Substance Use
MediumAlcohol consumption is a prominent and frequent element of the show, with main characters often drinking as part of their routine. Additionally, some supporting characters are explicitly identified with heavy drinking or alcoholism, indicating a recurring presence of substance use.
The main characters are frequently depicted drinking 'rakija,' a traditional Balkan brandy, as part of their daily work life, with the very first episode titled "Rakija." Supporting characters like Miloš the porter and Kum Todor are explicitly described as a 'lover of alcohol' and an 'alcoholic,' respectively, highlighting the presence of heavy drinking among the show's cast.
Scary & Intense Content
MediumDespite being a comedy, the series includes intense plot elements such as threats of violence and sudden character death. These situations create moments of tension and impact, though they are generally framed within the satirical or comedic tone of the show rather than intended as horror.
In one episode, Rade Kornjača, driven by humiliation, places a bomb under Čvarkov's chair, creating a high-stakes and intense situation. Additionally, the character Velinko Klač, who briefly holds the position of chief archivist, experiences and dies from a heart attack within the office, introducing a sudden and impactful event into the storyline.
Anti-Christian Themes
LowNo explicit anti-Christian themes, mockery, or sacrilegious acts were identified. Christian cultural elements are present through characters' backgrounds, but the show's satire primarily targets socio-political and bureaucratic issues rather than religious beliefs.
The character Dragan Torbica is described as a 'sincere believer' who celebrates 'slava,' a significant Serbian Orthodox Christian tradition, indicating the presence of Christian cultural aspects without being a target of satire. No specific instances of mockery or direct criticism of Christian beliefs or symbols were found in the available information, suggesting an absence of anti-Christian content.
Other Notes
Target Demographic
Considering the mature satirical humor, frequent use of mild to moderate profanity, suggestive conversations, and regular depiction of alcohol use, "Državni posao (2012)" is recommended for viewers aged 14+. Younger audiences may not fully grasp the nuanced socio-political satire, and the presence of adult themes, including consistent disrespect and challenging authority, is more appropriate for teenagers and older.
Additional Notes
The series consists of short episodes (5-11 minutes) and has been running for over 11 seasons with more than 2400 episodes. The humor is highly contextual and often relies on local socio-political references, which might be less accessible to audiences unfamiliar with Serbian culture and politics. While the format is consistent, the satirical targets and specific jokes may evolve over the long run of the show.
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