With an emotional applause paying homage to the until recently festival director, the great Branko Lustig, and a screening of the romantic comedy A Good Year by Ridley Scott he produced, last night the first ever festival edition without him in charge opened officially at Bundek lake in Zagreb. The 14th Festival of Tolerance was organised in almost impossible conditions, therefore the filled Bundek Amphitheatre, to the point allowed by safety measures, and the great relaxed atmosphere under the starry sky gave the organisers the greatest imaginable satisfaction.
“The festival torch lit 14 years ago by Branko Lustig still burns bright, always on the lookout for new threats from different forms of evil that befall us and bring nothing good to anyone. We’ll take this opportunity to announce a special edition of the Educational Matinees programme for October 2020, dedicated to Branko, making sure his mission continues. I would like to thank the entire team for their committed efforts and invite all of you to join us in spreading tolerance. Let’s remain responsible and adhere to the health measures,” said Nataša Popović, director of the Festival of Tolerance.
“We proudly present free screenings and 12 amazing feature titles demonstrating the immense talent of both established and up-and-coming filmmakers. We believe the films will you intrigue you, this year we have a little bit for everyone – romances, comedies, war films, art house films… all conveying the messages about the promotion of human rights and tolerance, following in the footsteps of Branko Lustig,” said Hrvoje Pukšec, curator of film programmes at the Festival of Tolerance.
The evening began with a fantastic concert by Soul Beat, and after the film the party continued with DJ Felver. The event was hosted by actress Ecija Ojdanić. The festival was supported by many famous guests, including the Minister of Culture Nina Obuljen-Koržinek, Israeli ambassador Ilan Mor, other members of the diplomatic corps, MPs, artists and the Mayor Milan Bandić, who officially opened the festival.
Until 4 July, the Bundek Amphitheatre will remain an open-air cinema and a stage for bands and DJ performances, accompanied by an interesting educational programme presenting NGOs. Admission to all events is free.
The organisers invites everyone to remain responsible to themselves and others, to wear masks and adhere to the recommendations issued by the Croatian Public Health Institute.
Photographs by: Buga Cvjetanović