In a remote Moldovan village, 42-year-old Elena leads a dual life. By day, she’s a poor farmer, tending to pigs, poultry, and a cow alongside her controlling 72-year-old mother, Ana. But Elena’s true passion lies in her role as the village’s beating heart – distributing donations to lonely elders, engaging children in environmental activities, and donning a Santa Claus costume each year to reward young volunteers.
Despite her demanding responsibilities, Elena yearns for personal growth. She enrolls in online courses, listening to lectures while milking the cow, finding both excitement and escape in these learning opportunities. Driven by ambition and a desire to challenge the status quo, Elena makes a bold move: she decides to run for mayor.
In this journey of self-discovery, filmed over seven years, she evolves from simply trying to do what she wants to actively opposing what she feels obligated to do. Ultimately, Elena realizes her true calling lies not in political office, but in her role as the village’s nurturing soul.
The film concludes with Elena embracing her identity as the community’s beloved Santa Claus, bringing joy to the village she holds dear. “Electing Ms Santa” is a poignant exploration of identity, the clash between generations, and the search for meaning beyond traditional boundaries of place and gender. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of finding one’s authentic place in the world.
Participant: Ion Gnatiuc - Moldova