Rotterdam, Netherlands—At the International Film Festival Rotterdam on Friday, Croatian director Igor Bezinović’s film “Fiume o morte!” claimed the prestigious Tiger Award, taking home €40,000. This hybrid documentary delves into the storied past of Gabriele D’Annunzio, an Italian poet and army officer who occupied the city of Fiume in 1919, blending dramatic reenactments with documentary aspects to explore complex historical narratives.
The film’s timeliness and relevance were highlighted by the jury amidst what they described as a resurgence of ultra-nationalism in Europe. They commended the film for addressing the past not just as history, but as something alive that continues to shape present geopolitics and societal structures. The jury’s discussions indicated that Bezinović’s narrative techniques provoke reflection on national identity and historical memory, suggesting that these are not merely topics of the past but are vividly influencing contemporary realities.
Upon accepting the award, Bezinović expressed his satisfaction with the film’s reception, emphasizing how the universal appeal of the narrative surpassed his expectations. His remarks hinted at the broader implications of his film’s message in current global contexts, where the dichotomy between ‘us’ and ‘them’ is increasingly pronounced.
The jury also made mention of their solidarity with Iranian actor Soheila Golestani, originally slated to be a jury member, but restricted from traveling due to a ban. Festival director Vanja Kaludjercic and the current members expressed their hope for Golestani’s participation in future events, indicating ongoing support amidst her absence.
Additionally, the jury awarded special prizes of €10,000 each to two other standout films: Sammy Baloji’s “The Tree of Authenticity,” a reflection on the Democratic Republic of Congo’s colonial past, and Tim Ellrich’s “Im Haus meiner Eltern,” a personal exploration of caregiving burdens. Both films were praised for their unique approaches and thematic depth.
Another highlight of the event was Jon Blåhed’s “Raptures,” which won the main prize in the Big Screen Competition. This drama, built around a Christian woman in a sectarian movement, is the first feature film produced in the Meänkieli language and was commended for its poignant questioning of enduring social issues.
As the festival heads towards its culmination, anticipation builds around the announcement of the Audience Award and the IFFR Youth Jury Award, set to be disclosed on Sunday. These awards are keenly awaited as they reflect the preferences and sensibilities of a broader demographic, providing an additional layer of acclaim to noteworthy cinematic achievements.
The full list of winners spans various categories, reflecting the diverse range of talents showcased at this year’s festival. As attendees and participants celebrated these achievements, the overarching spirit of the event was one of embracing cinematic storytelling as a powerful conduit for dialogue and understanding across different cultures and generations.
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