Introduction to the Sarajevo Film Festival
The Sarajevo Film Festival is set to open with the world premiere of Dino Mustafic’s dark comedy, The Pavilion, on August 15th. This film marks the second feature by the Bosnian director, whose debut film Remake in 2003 remains one of the most watched films in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Story Behind The Pavilion
The Pavilion tells the story of a group of residents in a retirement home who decide to stage an armed revolt after years of abuse and humiliation. Armed with illegal weapons, they take over the house, hold the staff hostage, and contact the authorities. The film brings together a large regional cast of well-known actors and is a product of collaboration between authors and producers from the Balkans.
The Making of The Pavilion
According to Mustafic, The Pavilion is a film about the oldest generation deciding to act according to their conscience in today’s world. He notes that the film is a unique rebellion story, which will become clear to the audience once they see it. The film was produced by Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Obala Art Centar in co-production with several other companies from the region, including Croatia’s Cineplanet, Krug Film from North Macedonia, Serbia’s Monte Royal Pictures, and Montenegro’s Natenan Productions.
The Cast and Crew
The script for The Pavilion was written by Viktor Ivancic, with Emir Imamovic Pirke as a co-author. The film features a talented cast, including Rade Serbedija, Zijah Sokolovic, Miralem Zubcevic, Ksenija Pajic, and Jasna Diklic. The producers are Mustafa Mustafic, Ishak Jalimam, and Rusmir Efendic, with several co-producers from the region.
Support and Funding
The film was shot with the support of several institutions, including the Ministry of Culture and Sport of Sarajevo Canton, the Sarajevo Film Fund, the Croatian Audiovisual Center, the North Macedonia Film Agency, the Film Center Serbia, and the Film Center of Montenegro. The film was also produced in co-production with BH Telecom.
About the Director
Dino Mustafic is known for his documentaries, such as The Runway of Life and Let It Give Light. His debut feature film, Remake, premiered in Rotterdam and played at several international festivals. Mustafic is also a renowned theater director.
The Sarajevo Film Festival
The 31st Sarajevo Film Festival will take place from August 15th to 22nd. The opening ceremony will be hosted by Bosnian actor Lidija Kordic, who played the leading role in the biographical drama Future Diva. The festival promises to bring together a diverse range of films and talents from the region and beyond.
