The 26th edition of the Skopje Film Festival officially opened last night at the Macedonian National Theatre (MNT), introducing a refreshed concept, an expanded program and a strong international presence.
The evening began at 7:30 p.m. with a red-carpet ceremony attended by numerous filmmakers, actors, international guests and prominent figures from the cultural and artistic community. The official opening ceremony followed at 8 p.m.
For the first time in the festival’s history, the organizers presented the “Golden Skopolia” Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to world cinema.
This year’s inaugural award was presented to Polish filmmakers Małgorzata Szumowska, director, and Michał Englert, cinematographer and director.
Following the award ceremony, the festival officially opened with a screening of their latest film, The Idiot(s), starring Johnny Flynn and Aimee Lou Wood.
International Film Industry Professionals Gather in Skopje
This year’s festival has attracted prominent professionals from the European and regional film industries.
Already in Skopje are members of the international jury and the Festival Council, including British film critic and programmer Philip Bergson, British producer Steve Abbott, regional producer Miroslav Mogorović, Serbian director Pavle Vučković, German film programmer Daniela Weber, Macedonian actress and producer Labina Mitevska, and director Darijan Pejovski.
Among the special guests attending the opening ceremony was renowned actor, director and producer Dragan Bjelogrlić.
The festival also welcomed filmmakers who personally presented their work to audiences in Skopje. They included Halkawt Mustafa, director of No Paradise If You Are Killed by a Woman; Lawrence Fajardo, director of Silenced Nights; Dimitris Nakos, director of Life in a Beat; Gábor Holtai, director of Feels Like Home; and Susanne Heinrich and Marcelo Busse, who presented The Miserable Mother.
Screenings, Premieres and Masterclasses Through November 9
From November 5 through November 9, the Skopje Film Festival will offer an extensive and diverse program featuring premieres of notable auteur films, festival favorites, discussions with filmmakers and exclusive masterclasses led by invited guests.
The Festival Center is located at the Youth Cultural Center (MKC), while screenings will take place at two of the city’s established cultural venues: the Macedonian National Theatre (MNT) and the Frosina Cinema at MKC.
Tickets for all screenings, including the opening ceremony, are available through the MK Tickets network.
The 26th edition aims to bring international cinema closer to Macedonian audiences while creating opportunities for filmmakers, industry professionals and film lovers to connect and exchange ideas.
