Dvi-tri teške drame za umrit od smija

"Two or Three Difficult Dramas to Die of Laughter" (published in 2002) is one of the most famous and popular collections of comedic drama texts by the Split actress, writer and comedian Arijana Čulina. In this extremely entertaining and witty work, the author, based on her recognizable stage and literary style, brings an authentic cross-section of the Dalmatian mentality, family disputes and male-female relationships. The title of the collection carries a characteristic ironic note: although the texts deal with "difficult" and everyday life topics - such as marital misunderstandings, family intrigues, old age, loneliness and the pressure of social expectations - they are written with an exceptional amount of sharp comedy, exaggeration and Mediterranean charm. The author masterfully uses the local dialect, the fast rhythm of the lines and juicy, lifelike dialogues in which readers and viewers easily recognize themselves. Through her characters — most often loud, temperamental and unwavering women and their confused or easygoing husbands — Čulina caricatures everyday life, transforming family "dramas" into superb satire that makes you laugh to tears. Written in an accessible, exceptionally stage-gracious and folk style, the collection "Two or Three Difficult Dramas to Die of Laughter" remains a lasting testament to the author's unique sense of humor and a valuable part of contemporary Croatian comedy and folk theater.