Radulović and Bečanović go to Sarajevo

Director Sara Radulovic and camerawoman Milena Bečanović are the Montenegrin representatives at this year's 19th edition of the "Talents Sarajevo" program, which is held as part of the Sarajevo Film Festival (SFF).

In the selection of a total of 63 young film professionals from Southeast Europe and the South Caucasus, among as many as 560 applicants, two from Montenegro were selected.

Participants in the "Talents Sarajevo" program, which will be held this year under the theme "Filming as caring", come from 17 of the 20 countries included in the call.

"The program is a dynamic platform that allows participants to participate in workshops, lectures, discussions, practical sessions and film screenings. The program is structured in eight modules and is led by internationally recognized mentors. The 'Talents Sarajevo' program includes: Directors Summit, in which Radulović participates, Producers Summit, Acting Studio, Camera Studio, where Bečanović is among the selected participants, then Editing Studio, Pack & Pitch, Script Station and Talent Press," the statement said.

"In a time of accelerated technological change, from the development of streaming platforms and artificial intelligence to new business models, the film industry is undergoing transformations that have a strong impact on the mental and emotional health of those who work in it. These changes remind us that any structural reform affects the people behind the camera the most. This year's edition of the Talents Sarajevo program focuses on these issues, opening up space for new creative voices from the region," say the organizers.

This year, “Talents Sarajevo” comes with an expanded program, with two new initiatives: the “Talents Sarajevo Innovation Forum” and the Script Station, which is evolving into the “Writers' Room”.

“Innovation Forum” brings an open, interdisciplinary platform dedicated to intellectual property management, gaming and cross-media narratives. In response to the growing interest in artificial intelligence, new technologies and media innovation, the Forum is open to all participants and encourages collaboration and continuous learning outside the traditional film framework. In addition, the Script Station is evolving into a Writers' Room, following the increasing demands for quality scripts and the growing demand for serial storytelling in the region. The new format focuses on teamwork, character development and episode structure, providing participants with practical experience working in a creative and dynamic collective,” the SFF states.

Since its establishment in 2006, in partnership with Berlinale and Berlinale Talents, Talents Sarajevo has become a key part of the CineLink Industry Days program, focused on skills development, education and international cooperation.

"The program provides participants with the opportunity to develop their artistic and professional potential, actively participate in relevant industry topics, and build lasting connections within the global film community," they remind in the statement.