Montenegrin authors and film projects were presented at the recently concluded seventh edition of the International Documentary Film Festival FIPADOC, in Biarritz, France, reports the Film Center of Montenegro (FCCG).
Montenegrin cinema had a significant presence in several festival segments. In the industrial program of this year's edition of the "FIPADOC" festival, special attention was paid to the Balkan region, with numerous workshops, panels, presentations of projects and authors from the region.
The panel entitled "Highlights on Balkans", which brought together numerous representatives of regional cinematography, was also attended by FCCG Director Aleksandra Božović and the Artistic Director of the International Documentary Film Festival "Underhill Fest" Vuk Perović.
On that occasion, Božović emphasized that the Film Center of Montenegro is continuously working to strengthen international co-production ties, which is confirmed by the increasing number of quality projects created in cooperation with partners from the region and Europe.
"It is extremely important that French film professionals recognize the artistic and production potential of Montenegrin cinematography, which creates the basis for long-term cooperation between our two countries," Božović emphasized.
A meeting was also organized with representatives of the French National Center for Cinematography and Animated Image (CNC) where they discussed the continuation of cooperation that began with the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation in Cannes last year, as well as future plans that include the signing of an intergovernmental co-production agreement between Montenegro and France.
In addition, the Montenegrin documentary film "This Good Land", directed by Vladimir Perović, was screened as part of the "Histoires d'Europe" selection. The premiere in France was attended by director Perović and producer Ivan Čojbašić.
Perović emphasized that he was pleased that the film was included in a significant selection that brings together the highest quality European documentary films.
"We noticed a good reaction from the audience at the festival - the film was shown twice, and the halls were almost full, while the conversations with the audience were marked by numerous questions about Montenegro. In addition to the positive reception, the festival also contributed to establishing business contacts," said Perović.
The Montenegrin documentary project "Balkan's Maestro" (working title "Opus K"), directed by Altinai Petrović Njegoš and François Fluri, and produced by "Atomic Production" from Podgorica, was presented in the "International Pitches" selection. The project recently received support from FCCG in the project development competition.
As part of the industry program, workshops "Producers meet producers" were organized, aimed at connecting French and foreign producers. The prominent young Montenegrin director and producer Sara Stijović participated in them.
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