The 53rd Fest in Belgrade is set to take place from October 2 to 11, marking a significant return to its traditional venue at the Sava Center after a two-year hiatus. This year’s festival will showcase more than 100 films from 54 countries, with the opening night featuring the premiere of Lordan Zafranović’s film “Golden Cut 42 (Djeca Kozare).” The film, which delves into the harrowing experiences of children in the Jasenovac concentration camp during World War II, is a poignant exploration of historical atrocities.
Dragan Jeličić, a coach associated with the festival, confirmed that the selection of films includes both world premieres and award-winning entries from major international festivals. The festival’s lineup is expected to draw significant attention, highlighting the cultural importance of the event in Serbia’s cinematic landscape. The decision to return to the Sava Center underscores the organizers’ efforts to restore the festival’s former glory and prominence.
Lordan Zafranović, a renowned Croatian and Yugoslav director, has crafted “Golden Cut 42” based on a script co-written with Arsen Diklić in 1986. The film portrays the complex dynamics of the Jasenovac camp, where Serbs, Jews, Roma, and Croatian anti-fascists suffered under the brutal regime of the Ustasha. The narrative weaves together the perspectives of both victims and perpetrators, offering a chilling examination of the nature of evil. The production involved extensive scenography, designed by Milenko Jeremić, and featured a large cast and crew from across the region.
The festival, organized by the Center of Belgrade Festivals (CEBEF), aims to celebrate the resilience and creativity of the Serbian film industry. It will also serve as a platform for films from the previous year’s production, alongside a selection from 2025. The return to the Sava Center is a symbolic gesture, reaffirming the festival’s commitment to its roots and its role as a beacon of cultural expression in Serbia.
The significance of Fest in Belgrade extends beyond its film screenings. It represents a long-standing tradition in Serbian culture, known for its ability to attract international attention and foster artistic dialogue. The inclusion of Zafranović’s film is particularly noteworthy, given his previous recognition at the 51st Fest, where he received the “Belgrade Winner” award for his contributions to film art.
As the festival approaches, there is anticipation regarding its impact on the local film industry, especially in the post-pandemic context. While the public interest score suggests a moderate level of engagement, the festival’s diverse program and historical significance are expected to draw audiences and stimulate discussions on the themes presented in the films.
Overall, the 53rd Fest in Belgrade promises to be a significant cultural event, celebrating the power of cinema to reflect and challenge societal narratives. The premiere of “Golden Cut 42” is set to be a highlight, offering a compelling exploration of a dark chapter in history through the lens of a master filmmaker.
