```html Slovenian Director Kukla Tackles Third World War with Sex Strike in 'Good Girl' Slovenian filmmaker Kukla, fresh off the heels of her debut feature "Fantasy," which premiered at Locarno and screened at Thessaloniki, is diving into her next project: "Good Girl," a modern adaptation of Aristophanes' classic Greek comedy, "Lysistrata." Variety has exclusive details on the film's plot, casting, and the director's inspirations.

A Modern "Lysistrata" for the TikTok Age "Good Girl" reimagines the ancient play within the context of a looming third world war. In Kukla's version, a TikToker sparks a global movement by suggesting women withhold sex and childbirth from men until they cease fighting. This premise, Kukla tells Variety, explores themes of female solidarity and resistance against patriarchal structures.

Inspired by Korean Feminism The film draws inspiration from the Korean 4B Movement, a radical feminist movement advocating for the rejection of sex, childbirth, dating, and marriage as a response to male violence and oppression. The movement has gained traction globally, including in the U.S., and Kukla sees its spirit reflected in her protagonist's call to action.

Global Setting, Familiar Faces "Good Girl" will be set across various locations, including the Balkans and France, highlighting the director's belief in the power of female unity across borders. The film will feature Sarah Al Saleh, Mina Milovanović, and Mia Skrbinac, the lead actresses from "Fantasy." Kukla describes the project as "an homage to them" and their shared journey as both individuals and filmmakers.

Expert Perspective: The Enduring Power of "Lysistrata" Dr. Anya Peterson, a professor of classical literature at the University of Southern California, notes the enduring relevance of "Lysistrata." "Aristophanes' play, though comedic, tackles serious issues of war and gender dynamics. Kukla's modern adaptation taps into the same vein, using a familiar narrative to address contemporary concerns about conflict and female agency. The shift to a TikTok-driven movement speaks to the power of social media in shaping modern activism."

Echoes of "Fantasy": Patriarchy, Gender, and Identity Like "Good Girl," Kukla's debut feature, "Fantasy," delves into themes of patriarchy, gender roles, and identity. The film follows three tomboys in Slovenia who challenge conservative norms and traditions. Their encounter with Fantasy, a transgender woman, leads them on a journey of self-discovery and exploration of alternative approaches to gender and sexuality.

Pop Culture as a Bridge Kukla emphasizes the importance of making her films accessible, incorporating pop culture elements to engage viewers. Alina Juhart, who plays Fantasy, is a well-known figure in the Balkans due to her participation in a TV talent show, bridging the gap between mainstream entertainment and social commentary.

Collaboration and Authenticity Kukla prioritizes collaboration with her actors, viewing them as co-creators of the film. She aims to capture their perspectives and experiences authentically, ensuring that their voices are represented equally on screen. This approach fosters a transformative process for both the filmmakers and the actors involved.

The Seeds of an Idea: Sworn Virgins and Contemporary Tomboys The concept for "Fantasy" originated from Kukla's interest in "sworn virgins," Balkan women who historically took vows of chastity and lived as men. She sought to translate this rejection of traditional gender roles into a contemporary setting, exploring the experiences of tomboys who defy societal expectations.

A Personal Journey of Identity Kukla's personal experiences as a child of immigrants in Slovenia inform her filmmaking. Her family faced xenophobia and discrimination, leading her to explore themes of national identity and cultural fluidity in her work. She aims to reflect the complexities of diaspora and the unique cultural dynamics that emerge from the blending of different traditions.

Balkan Queerness: A Unique Perspective Kukla aims to showcase a distinct form of Balkan queerness in her films, independent of Western influences. She seeks to portray characters who are both vulnerable and powerful, challenging conventional notions of identity and sexuality within the region.

Historical Context: The Evolution of Female Resistance The themes explored in "Good Girl" and "Fantasy" resonate with a long history of female resistance in entertainment. From the suffragette dramas of the early 20th century to contemporary films and television shows addressing gender inequality, women have consistently used storytelling to challenge societal norms and advocate for change. Kukla's work builds upon this tradition, offering a fresh perspective on the ongoing struggle for female empowerment.

Analytical Viewpoint: The Power of Adaptation Film critic Mark Johnson argues that "Good Girl" exemplifies the power of adaptation to revitalize classic works. "By transposing 'Lysistrata' to a modern context, Kukla not only makes the play accessible to a new audience but also highlights its enduring relevance. The use of social media as a catalyst for change reflects the evolving landscape of activism and the ways in which technology can amplify marginalized voices." ```