The 8th International Debut Feature Film Festival Unfolds in Podgorica from September 11-17
Mark your calendars! The 8th Žada Film Festival starts on Monday, September 11. The opening film is “Sirin” by Senad Šahmanović. The screening begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Radosav Ljumović National Library. Hosted by Link Creative Studio, the festival runs until September 17. Films will be showcased at multiple venues in Podgorica. Admission to all events is free. This year’s theme is “Heads Up!”
Six Films in the Spotlight
Besides Šahmanović’s film, five other films are competing. These include “Vera” by Nedeljko Kovačić, “Have you seen this woman?” by Dušan Zorić and Matija Gluščević, “Excursion” by Una Gunjak, “Matria” by Alvar Gago Diaz, and “Safe Place”. Additionally, six films will be screened outside the competition. For the young audience, “Neustrašiva šukka” will be shown on September 17.
French Cinema in Podgorica
This year, a French film, “Night Travelers,” will premiere. Bertrand Bosche, representing the French Embassy and Institute, discussed the film and why they’re supporting the festival. Cultural promotion is a priority for French embassies, including the one in Montenegro.
Jury and Prizes
Nina Lončar, on behalf of the organizers, introduced the jury. It includes Marija Perović, Ivan Marinović, and Stevan Filipović. They will select the best debut film and director. The prize fund this year is 2,000 euros, sponsored by Universal Capital Bank, represented by Ozana Popović.
Cultural Significance
Ana Medigović, from Podgorica’s Secretariat for Culture and Sports, highlighted the festival’s role in enriching the city’s cultural landscape. She emphasized the inclusion of a Montenegrin film in the competitive selection.
Ognjen Damjanović, from the Ministry of Culture and Media, spoke to journalists. He noted that the Žada Film Festival has become a key cultural event over its eight-year run. It engages the public uniquely and tackles important societal issues, earning the ministry’s support.
