Šibenik Hosts Second Annual Croatian International Film Festival
The picturesque city of Šibenik, Croatia, recently served as the vibrant backdrop for the second annual Croatian International Film Festival (CIFF), held from August 8 to 11, 2025. The festival, led by Croatian-American actress and producer Ella Mische, aimed to foster a new film community and elevate Croatia's standing in the international film industry. It is recognized as Europe's first and only women-led film festival.
A Platform for International Cinema and Industry Dialogue
CIFF's second edition presented a diverse program, including screenings of over 40 movies from various countries. The festival opened with 'The Friend', a highly anticipated film starring Naomi Watts and Bill Murray. Beyond film screenings, the event facilitated crucial industry dialogue through a series of panels and Q&A sessions. Notable discussions included 'Demystifying Distribution International' with Tyler DiNapoli, President and CMO of Bleecker Street, and panels focusing on 'Directors on Directing' and 'Actors on Acting'. A dedicated 'Student Film Corner' also provided a platform for emerging talent from around the globe to showcase their work.
Distinguished Guests and Community Engagement
The festival attracted a host of prominent figures from the film world and beyond. Attendees included Šibenik Mayor Dr. Željko Burić, former U.S. Ambassador to Croatia Nathalie Rayes, and actor Goran Višnjić. Actor Richard Gere also participated via video, introducing 'The Wisdom of Happiness', a film he produced. The event's success was bolstered by significant support from the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Sports, the Croatian AudioVisual Center, the City of Sibenik Tourism Board, and international media sponsors like the Los Angeles Times and 'The Envelope' magazine.
Recognizing Excellence with the 'Oko Didino' Award
The festival culminated in an awards ceremony where the distinctive 'Oko Didino' (roughly 'apple of my eye') award was presented. This award, sculpted by renowned Croatian-American artist Nick Kacic Miosic, recognized excellence in filmmaking. The various events took place across several key Šibenik venues, including the Trg Republike Hrvatske (Square of Republic of Croatia), Civitas Sacra, Kuća Arsen, the Museum of City of Šibenik, the National Theatre Šibenik, and Barone Fortress, transforming the historic city into a vibrant hub for cinema.
5 Comments
Muchacho
Another festival pushing foreign films. What about supporting local Croatian productions first?
Coccinella
Over 40 movies, but how many were genuinely groundbreaking? Quality over quantity.
Bermudez
Is 'women-led' just a marketing gimmick? Hope it's actually about merit.
Africa
Šibenik looks like the perfect backdrop. What a cultural boost!
Muchacha
It's great that Šibenik is gaining international recognition through this festival, which could boost tourism. However, the article doesn't detail how much actual local economic benefit or filmmaker development resulted from the event.