Impressions
2023
Domien Huyghe
BEL/film director Sea Sparkle
Zlín is not only about screening films but also about the connection between filmmakers and audience. Zlin is putting a lot of effort in Q & As, talks and presenting the team behind the film to the festival visitors. After my first visit, some years ago, I still can say that Zlin is one of the coolest festivals for young audiences.
Tomáš Danay
SVK/animator and director
I enjoyed my stay in Zlín very much. Pleasant atmosphere of a quiet city, hundreds of great films, enthusiastically running children and film professionals from all over the world. What more could one want from a film festival? However, the role of a juror is not always easy and brings many responsibilities. Thanks to the great team of organizers, the jurors managed to enjoy the festival, and I'm already looking forward to next year, when I'll come to Zlín to see it again. With less responsibility, but with much more enthusiasm.
Simon Crowe
GBR/film producer and sales manager
Zlín was a great experience, lots of films and super efficient app and organisation. Everyone was friendly and could not have made me more welcome. Thank you!
Hugo Thomas
FRA/film director (Juniors)
As for the festival, it was amazing to witness a whole city living for its festival for a few days, as if everybody liked it, had been waiting for it to begin and wanted to participate. It was also such a kid friendly environment and that made it very special for me. I loved it!
Alena a Martin Vandasovi
CZE/producers MAUR film
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you from the bottom of our hearts once again for the invitation to Zlín and to once again be part of a great festival. We all can see that you are doing an amazing job, you are all doing it patiently, honestly, sincerely. The festival is getting more professional every year and the absolute beauty is a fact that the event is for children. We are keeping our fingers crossed for the next edition and our films will always be available to you.
Nanna Kristín Magnúsdóttir
ICE/ film director (12 Hours to Destruction)
Thank you for a great festival! I had a lovely time. And I have to say your staff and volunteers are one of the best I have experienced. Hopefully I have a reason to travel to Zlín again and then visit the festival.
Andrej Hadjivasilev
BUL/film director (The Tesla Case)
Zlín Film Festival is a dream event for each film director to present his children's film. My meeting with the audience of The Tesla Case in Zlín was very friendly. The children's reactions and impressions were very positive, and their questions were curious and funny. I saw many friends and colleagues and made new professional contacts. I'm looking forward to the next festival edition with great interest!
Marion Heimlund
NOR/program director of the Kristiansand International Children´s Film Festival
Thank you for invaiting me to the Zlín Film Festival. Beeing there,as part of the ECFA jury, was a experiance for life. It was relly interesting to get to know your festival, and hope to wisit you again sometime in the future!
Anika Mätzke
GER/film director (Jonja)
I enjoyed being part of Zlín Festival very much! It was my first international festival experience as a director and i was overwhelmed by the kindness and hospitality of everyone. Most impressive for me was the atmosphere all over the City of Zlín, it is so great how the whole city is involved in celebrating movies.
Nils Andersson
SWE/film distributor Smorgasbord Picture House
Thank you for having me. I had the best time in Zlin. Even if it was only my first time at your wonderful festival it felt like I had been there many times before. It was like coming home! And great work with the film program. Two of the titles screened at Zlin we have for distribution in Sweden: Dancing Queen and The Kings of the World. Kudos! I will absolutely come back to Zlin again, no doubt about it.
Dan Pánek
CZE/film director (Big Dreams)
The warm, friendly, almost family-like atmosphere that I experienced at the 63rd edition is exactly what I have been hearing from my colleagues for many years. I am extremely glad that I experienced the well-known hospitality of the festival. I will never forget the reception of our film. Thank you that such a place for films, especially for children, exists. I can't wait for next year.
Vassilis C. Karamitsanis
GRE/president of Animasyros Film Festival
My experience in Zlín Film Festival 2023 was outstanding! Great films & festival vibe with impressive organisational and production value from the smiliest festival team.
Elena Madrid
SUI/film director (Lovely Rita)
Zlín Film Festival was a very filmmaker friendly place to connect with others, the guest services were excellent. Many interesting events for the visitors. Great children's and youth films. I have rarely been so well entertained. The competition among the animated films was very strong, but nevertheless I enjoyed presenting my film Lovely Rita there. Thanks a lot for this exceptional time there.
Lina Walde
GER/film director (Dessert Critter)
Zlín Film Festival was an amazing experience especially in terms of connection to other filmmakers and curators and the exchange about the art of children filmmaking.
2022
Kateřina Hager
CZE/Director (Children Online)
Thanks to the entire festival team! Me and my husband Tariq had a great time in Zlín and it was a great pleasure and honor for me to be part of the festival jury. I already miss the great atmosphere of the festival and the first-class care you gave us all week.
Martin Smatana
SVK/Director (The Kite)
I really enjoyed Zlín and I have to say that of the almost 100 festivals I have visited so far, this was probably the greatest experience. In every way, indeed! Thank you for the hospitality, organization and great movies. I look forward to seeing you again. You have done a great job.
Barbora Cihelková
CZE/Journalist
The whole festival was an incredible ride for me. Thanks to the excellent guest service, I didn't have to worry about anything, I could concentrate on the films and enjoy the unique, positive atmosphere of the festival. You are doing a great job and I have a lot to remember.
Alena Vandasová
CZE/Film producer (Suzie in the Garden)
Dear ZFF team, I too would like to sincerely thank you for your kind invitation and welcome to Zlín. We were delighted with the whole festival, your professionalism, care, enthusiasm for the film and the atmosphere. Yesterday's award was a great ending, what more could you ask for!
Teresa Lima
POR/director of the PLAY Festival
Once again I thank you for the amazing experience you provided me! For me, it was life changing. Never imagined it would be this amazing. I was really proud to be a part of it. Congratularion on the work you do, on your sensibility and how you easily real people.
Kenneth Kainz
DNK/Director (The Shammer´s Daughter)
Thank you for a wonderful stay and experience in Zlin. What a great atmosphere made by the staff, guests and audience, lest the very exciting and varied program.
2021
Bill Gerber
USA/producer (A Star Is Born, Gran Torino)
I had an incredible experience at this Zlín Film Festival. The people there are so enthusiastic about film and making sure that young people appreciate the arts. The community emphasis is heartwarming. The staff are incredibly professional. And the programming is superb.
Géza M. Tóth
HUN/film director, university professor
Great festival, professional organization, warm-hearted hospitality. This is Zlin. And one more thing. A city where the moderate, wise, diligent constructive spirit represented by the citizens of Moravia and especially the founders of the Bata factory exudes from every building, every square, street and park. It was good to be in Europe again for a week.
Johanne Helgeland
NOR/film director (The Crossing)
What an inspiring and heart warming experience being part of the Zlín Film Festival is. Besides getting to know wonderful people from all over the world, watching lots of interesting films, and visit Batas kingdom (someone should make a film about him), you will soon find out that you really don´t want to miss any of the arrangements this festival offers. Everything is so well thought and organized. I felt welcome right from the start. PS! I also recommend the local swimming hall (when you need a break). Thank you, Zlin, Marketa, Mila and all the others, I hope I´ll se you again some day!
Nicola Jones
GER/director of the children´s media festival Goldener Spatz
Being part of the ECFA Jury at the 61 Zlin Film Festival was a truly wonderful experience and I absolutely enjoyed a truly great event. I have never been able to visit before and I grew very fond of the festival, the city, the films and over all the hospitality of the entire team. It is my philosophy that things can only become great if you do them by heart. And my impression was that the festival team conducted all their work with passion for children’s films, the audience and the children’s film community. Visiting the city during the festival left me with the impression that the inhabitants of Zlin are very proud of their cinema culture – the enthusiasm for films and the young audience is contagious. After a long period of staying at home due to COVID 19 coming to Zlin almost felt like an awaking.
Claudia Rudolph-Hartmann
GER/Senior Manager International Festivals & Acquisitions
Being a juror at Zlin FF was a great experience, as the festival is a wonderful place to be, to meet people and enjoy the program with accompanying and industry events. I felt very welcome and extremely well taken care of, with the whole festival team being so engaged. The hospitality is surely something the festival stands for, and additionally it is impressive to see how much the whole city is involved and enjoys the festival days. Meeting many nice people from all over the world, having had lively and interesting discussions and forming a great team within our jury (and the other juries as well), this had been a fantastic week. Such a well selected program, so many different and important films to discover – thanks so much for this amazing experience!
Loreta Gandolfi
GBR/Film Curator Affiliate in Film Studies, University of Cambridge Member of the European Film Academy
My time at the Zlin Film Festival 61 exceeded by far my expectations. I have known the festival since forever, reading about its endeavours, exploring their stimulating line-ups year after year, from the comfort of my desk in Cambridge. Yet, to be there in person this September 2021 has given me a range of emotions that it was impossible to guess I’d feel, unless I spent time in Zlin throughout the whole duration of the Festival. The festival is not ‘just’ about a film selection of supreme quality; the festival is about turning the city into a film city or a film set, by using every single corner as a spot to create an activity for all the citizens who wish to take part in the enterprise – by receiving plenty and giving back plenty. I saw innumerable public gardens, trees, flower beds and squares thriving and contributing to the festive atmosphere that make of the Zlin Film Festival a living fairy tale. Never until now, I saw mothers and fathers who were holding on the one arm, a few weeks or a few months old baby, and with the other hand a few years old child, all wishing to be exposed in this immersive cinematic experience day after day. Cinema breaks all sorts of barriers – of language, of culture, of hierarchy; in no time, I felt at home with this crowd of strangers, who, as joyfully, as I, were enjoying, all day long, the sheer variety of activities that the incredibly hard-working festival staff had prepared for us.
2019
VOLODYMYR DIAGILEV
UKR / Executive director of the Dytiatko International Children´s Media Festival, member of ECFA – International jury
„I discovered that famous shoes brand Baťa is from Zlín. Unbelievable! I discovered four airplanes and countless different cars Škoda. I explored truck of Czech Biathlon Team and a little bit of the Zlín Film Studios. It was amazing days in Zlín. Thank too so much! All time me and children´s jury members felt your care.“
EGLĖ ČEPAITĖy
FRA / Festival Scope (platfrom for viewing films)
„As for the discoveries and explorations, I think my biggest discovery was Zlín itself, I enjoyed exploring the town through the Festival's landmarks around every corner. It's amazing to explore the city transformed into one joyous feast, thank you again for this!“
RAŠKO MILJKOVIĆ
SRB / Film director (The Witch Hunters), member of International Expert Jury for Feature Films for Children and Youth
„It was wonderful! Always great to come to Zlín, and enjoy the films and the good times! I guess I discovered some wonderful people from all over the world, and had some great conversations with them, about film, but about culture as well. I’d love to come back again with a new project!“
SARAH AHERN
IRL / Dramaturge and manager of the Virgin Media Dublin International Film Festival, member of International Expert Jury for Student Films Zlín Dog
„It was my first time visiting the Czech Republic and I couldn't imagine a better way to be introduced to Czech people and Czech culture than through my experience on the Zlín Film Festival's, Zlín Dog Jury. I got to learn a lot about the history of the city of Zlín, a history rich with entrepreneurs, explorers, filmmakers and a space full of unique architecture. I also discovered many films from around the world through the student film competition and was really impressed by the level of craft and talent. The main programme was full of wonderful international titles for all ages and provides an important platform for children and young people. Finally I discovered fantastic like-minded people in my fellow jurors and juries and was exceptionally well looked after by all the Zlín Film Festival team. I hope to return again someday!“
CHRISTOPH BREHME
ITA / Film director of A Chick´s Adventure (International Competition of Short Animated Films for Children)
„It was really incredible being part of your festival. Everything was so well organised, all the people where friendly and the whole city participated. I am still in my bubble of memories and well, thank you a thousand times, it really gave me a lot of inspiration and energy!!!“
ZARA BALFOUR
GBR / Film director of Children of the Snow Land (Competition of European Documentary Films for Young Audience)
„I really enjoyed coming to Zlín. You've got such a wonderful festival. I was very impressed at the quality, scale and variety of the festival. It feels like you've combined a film festival, music festival and summer fair together to create something unique with a wonderful atmosphere. I also very much appreciated how well your team looked after me during my time in Zlín. It was very caring and thoughtful. Often one feels a bit alone at festivals due to not knowing anyone, but at Zlín I felt very much part of the group from the moment I arrived until the moment I left. I definitely hope to come back in future. Also if you ever would like me to be a jury member in future years, I'd be very happy to.“
ANTHONY WONG
USA / Animator and story sketch artist (Ratatouille, Toy Story 3,…), the president of Joint International Jury of Children and Adults for Animated Films
„What did I discover in Zlín? Working with passionate jury members, talking to young talents at Tomas Bata school, meeting amazing people,… the list keeps going, and of course, the beer! I am motivated to finish my short film and hope to return as a competitor.“
ROWENA MARTINEZ ULAYAN-TUZCUOGLU
TUR / Festival director of Universal Kids Film Festival, the president of ECFA – International jury
DISCOVERING ZLINNERS AND MYSELF Clouds passing by and drizzles of rain in May, Serenades of chirping birds perched upon branches Of verdant green trees dancing in mid-air whisked By wind, stole my heart away, slowly, sweetly. I dare not breath, the moment is immortal Sunset beyond mountains render crimson hues, Tints of grey on rooftops, chimneys, and courtyards Days begin on alabaster nights in Zlin The moon is silver etched among million stars, Laugh, dance, sing till you drop and all that mirth brings Elixir of eternal youth through my heart Mindless of carnal dictates, drink, no one sleeps. I discovered Zlin Find me And so much love in between.
ELEANOR WORTHINGTON-COX
GBR / Actress (Gwen, The Enfield Haunting, Britannia), 59th ZFF Young Star
„Even though I only spent a few days in Zlín, I found time to explore the city a little, and I even went to the top of your tallest building to admire the view. It was fascinating to learn about the history of your city, I discovered a lot about Tomáš Bata while doing a photo shoot next to his statue. It was an honour to be invited to Zlín and I owe a big thank you to Míla Řádová for making me feel so welcome. She also taught me about your traditions such as planting a tree at the festival every year! In future, I hope to return to Zlín with my children so they can see the tree I planted and be taught as I was about your city’s culture.“
XIAOJUAN ZHOU
CAN / Producer, distributor, the president of International Expert Jury for Feature Films for Children and Youth
„What did I discove & explore in Zlín? The city of Zlín and its rich history Walking around, meeting strangers on the streets and parks, tasting your food and smelling your air makes me part of your everyday life! A visit could not be complete with a pilgrimage to the Bat’a museum where I read many of his inspiring slogans (warship makes a man or a woman, I assume). His love for this city and his avant-garde philosophy in so many areas including cinema. He shaped your city, and his spirit lives on. The Czech film industry Even though, as a student of Mr. Rock Demers, I have been exposed to Czech cinema and its glorious past, to meet people like my co-juror Petr Oukropec and other Czech filmmakers helps me get a better grasp of the current status of the Czech film industry and explore potential collaboration, either intl distribution or multiple party coproduction or a mix of such activities. We have certain ideas in mind, which need to be explored in the coming months/years. Children’s films I thought I would have seen most of the films selected in Zlín, but no, I have not seen most of them. So, to watch them with kids was a great experience. How to make films for them and about them is a constant subject in our minds. I am glad that our decision overlapped with theirs on ROCCA CHANGES THE WORLD but I am glad that we went with MY EXTRAORDINARY SUMMER WITH TESS and GIANT LITTLE ONES as our top choices. Honestly, my experience has surpassed my expectations in a big way, for which I thank you both, your festival President, your staff and everybody else. Days passed by quickly and happily. Our jury members had a constructive and great time together. We had all the time to express our opinions, and came out with consensus and remain friends. That was our goal to go into Zlín and reached when departing Zlín.“
MAKIKO NANKE
JAP / Film director of Good Night (International Competition of Short Animated Films for Children)
„I was so glad that I could feel many children enjoyed my film together. I could believe my work was not wrong! I watched many short animated films and feature films every day for 4 days. Those themes, languages and cultures had many variation selected carefully for children and youth. I had never visited such a wonderful film festival for children and youth, in Japan. I really thought It's so great that many children had visited the festival as a part of education. Because I felt certain that it make them learn many things and they could feel how big the world is. I thought we must need it in Japan too. Thank you children, thank you Zlín. I'll be back someday.“
FRANK THOMAS GRAPL
NEZ / Whakaari Rotorua - Māori Cultural International performance group from Rotorua New Zealand
„I'm always happy to represent the Czech Republic back home in New-Zealand, but I'm also very happy that already for 59 years, the Zlin Film Festival gave a great visibility to films from New Zealand, and to the representation of the Indigenous people from my country. This makes me really proud.“
ČEJEN ČERNIĆ
CRO / Film director of The Mystery of Green Hill (Discover & Explore: Balkan Films)
„For me, the biggest discovery of the festival was festival itself. This year was my first at ZFF and I went home full of new impressions. Let “Discover & Explore” become a part of our everyday life.“
JIŘÍ KONEČNÝ
CZE / Film producer of Winter Flies (New Czech Films and TV Programmes)
„Jiří Konečný, how would you feel if WINTER FLIES would be screened tonight in a sold out theatre? – Konečný: Actually it IS sold out already, and that’s great. For every festival, the audience is the treasure. And Zlin really has that treasure. For us filmmakers, standing in front of a sold out theatre, is the best possible feeling.“
ĽUBICA ORECHOVSKÁ
SVK / Producer and distribution manager, member of International Expert Jury for European Feature Films
„New movies. I saw only a fraction of the rich festival program, but it also delighted the soul and convinced me that real and beautiful stories about children and adolescents, family and interpersonal relationships are still at the heart of talented filmmakers around the world. And they're getting more and more moving as I grow old. Outside of the cinema, I went to new places in the city again in Zlín, this time to the museum and gallery of the Baťa Institute, the nearby Vizovice and the legendary Rudolf Jelínek distillery. For the whole time I met and talked to many new and old friends at the strong brand Zlín Film Festival.“
Safdar Ahman
IND / Film director of Chippa (International Competition of Feature Films for Children) CÉLINE LOOP BEL / Film producer RAJAT AGRAWAL IND / Film producer
„We had a lovely time at Zlín! We loved showing the film to a young audience and the way they reacted to it. Congratulations for such a well organized, pleasant, beautifully programmed festival and thank you again to have selected Chippa to be a part of it. Thank you also for the way your team has taken care of us and for this lovely memories. We would love to be back to Zlín!“
RIMA DAS
IND / Film director (Village Rockstars, Bulbul Can Sing), member of International Expert Jury for Feature Films for Children and Youth
„I loved the atmosphere at Zlín – how the city came alive to celebrate cinema. I loved the enthusiasm with which parents expose their children to good cinema. It was truly a festival experience with the different activities, shopping, games, and of course films. For me, watching amazing films and discussing about them with my fellow jurors was the strawberry on the cake.“
STEVEN WOUTERLOOD
NLD / Film director of My Extraordinary Summer with Tess ((International Competition of Feature Films for Children), winner of Golden Slipper for Best Film for Children
„I’m a big friend of the Zlin Film Festival since I was here 3 years ago. I had an amazing time in Zlin and the people here started to feel like a kind of family to me. I promised myself: With my first feature film I want to come back here. And now is the moment! I’m here with MY EXTRAORDINARY SUMMER WITH TESS, and it’s so great to be back!“
MILENA TSCHARNTKE
GER / Actress (Jungle Child, Isy Way Out), 59th ZFF Young Star
„My experience at the Zlin Film Festival was very enjoyable! I wish I had more time to watch movies as there was a great selection of children and youth films - next time! I really enjoyed showing my movie ISY WAY OUT and the chance to talk with a young Czech audience about the movie & it’s issues after the screening was very important to me.“
JORDANNE JONES
IRL / Actress (Metal Heart, I Used to Live Here, Rebellion), 59th ZFF Young Star
„On my visit to Zlín Film Festival I discovered the love and enthusiasm for film and a great sense of community. I was welcomed back into a beautiful atmosphere and extraordinary energy from the tour guides, to the interviewers, Míla and the visitors and guests. I discovered some fantastic talent and was in awe at one film in particular, Broken Mirrors, directed by Imri Matalon and Aviad Givon.“
KATJA BENRATH
GER / Film director of Rocca Changes the World (International Competition of Feature Films for Children)
Winner of Main Prize of the Children’s Jury - for Best Feature Film for Children, Golden Apple – The City of Zlín Audience Award for Best Feature Film, Special Recognition of International Expert Jury for Feature Films and Ecumenical Jury „ROCCA CHANGES THE WORLD this morning had its Zlin Film Festival premiere and it was fantastic. The cinema was packed, the audience was great, they laughed at all the right moments, and the voice over did a wonderful job; she was even singing in Czech and the result was great. I was so proud!"
SERGEI KIBUS
EST / Film director of Teofrastus (International Competition of Short Animated Films for Children)
„Zlín film festival was an unforgettable experience for me. I've had a chance to meet some of the friendliest people in the world. Discovered the natural beauty of Czech Republic - the hills, mountains & forests are pure and green. It was like visiting a fairy tale. And the festival itself was a chance for me to rediscover my own childhood - the selection of films and many events for kids. All of it radiated the feeling of nostalgia, home and safety. Many times I've felt like a little boy again. And it was a special honor for me to be part of a film festival in Czech Republic - because since childhood i've enjoyed Czech animated films a lot, some of them inspired me to start my own career in animation. So, thank you Zlín & the festival crew! It was amazing.“
OLYA GOLUBEVA
RUS / Film director, animator, member of Joint International Jury of Children and Adults for Animated Films
„I would like to thank you and every single person of the Zlín Film Festival team for the warm and unforgettable welcoming! It was a great honour to be a part of such a wonderful event! I highly appreciate the trust that the Festival has given me by appointing me to the position of the international judge of animated films, as well as the great opportunity to meet and work together with the world's top professionals! The overall atmosphere was very friendly and relaxed! The Festival is created by people who are proud of their wonderful city of Zlín, as well as full of love for what they do! I absolutely adore the fact that the Film Festival is a grand celebration event which gives plenty of entertainment and exciting events to all the inhabitants of the wonderful city of Zlin, and not only the film industry experts and festival guests. It was great to learn about the history of the city and the talented businessman Tomas Bata, as well as visit his manor house and take the ride in the office elevator of the Zlín Skyscraper! I was very lucky to visit the animation department at Tomas Bata University during Antony's Wong workshop. Another enjoyable discovery was Film Studios. It was a great pleasure to get a sneak pick inside the studios and observe the process of the restorations of the old films! I never thought I will ever be connected with the Czech Republic but destiny gave me the unique opportunity to explore the cosy and friendly city of Zlín and meet wonderful people! Thank you so much for welcoming me to your fantastic family! I sincerely hope to be a part of the Festival in the future!“
FLOOR VAN DER MEULEN
NLD / Film director of The Last Male on Earth (Discover & Explore: Nature)
„What I like about this festival is the strong sense of Women Power! Almost the whole team is composed with women, and you can feel that in every aspect of the festival - they really make things work. It's a strong feeling and I appreciate it very much.“
KRISTINE SIMSONE
LAT / Novinářka, Journalist, organizer of Riga International Film Festival, member of ECFA – International jury
„I regard the festival as my main discovery, the scope and diversity of it was a truly pleasant surprise for me! But as I've also had a chance to walk around the city, I must say that I really enjoyed the unique pieces of modernist architecture - especially the ones in the industrial area of the city. It was a pity though, not to be able to see the interior of the grand cinema. Hopefully another time, when it is renovated!“
GUIDO COVENTS
BEL / Historian, member of SIGNIS, a Belgian association of professional film journalists, president of the Belgian African Film Festival, president of Ecumenical Jury
„I was happy to have discovered Zlin, as a green city, the impact of the festival on the city, above all in the weekend in the park. Also I was very emotional seeing the memorial monument of the citizens of Zlín who died in the second world war. That monument showed in fact also the presence of the inhabitants in the World but it was the first time I saw such a presence of inhabitants of European city who died for freedom. And of course, I did finally find out about Baťa - the shoes I bought are excellent!“
2018
OLYA GOLUBEVA
Ireland / Animator, film director
The Festival was a super fantastic event! I know you wanted everything to be perfect, well I have to tell you everything was a million times better than perfect. I fall in love with the Festival, with Zlin, with people, with lovely weather. It truly felt like home. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to meet such a wonderful and talented people! I would like to thank every person who helps to organize this tremendously amazing Festival! You guys are wonderful and talented team of lovely people!
HÜSEYIN TABAK
Germany / Film director
It was one of the best experiences I had in Festivals. It was such a strong selection. And such a warm guest service. I really love Zlin now and it will have a special place for me.
JITENDRA MISHRA
India / Festival director, producer
I must appreciate your dedication and honest team efforts to make it bigger, it's indeed an incomparable show you have hosted altogether. I would like to thank you from the core of my heart for giving me the opportunity to experience the one of its kind festiva l which is a divine combination of Great Program, Grandness, festivity values and togetherness. Especially the film program was so high in quality and content driven, it shows your sensitivity and deep knowledge about the subject. I have been lucky to be a part of it and watch so many great films during the fest, it has helped me nurture & enhance my inner knowledge.
MANUK DEPOYAN
Armenia / Film director
I was happy to be at the festival in Zlín. And it's a great honor for me to be on the jury of the festival. I enjoyed watching a great selection of animated films. Everything was at a very high level. I was happy to find good friends. Thank you very much for the whole team of the Zlín Festival for the warm welcome. I will send my new works to Zlín.
MARIUSZ PALEJ
Poland / Film director
The time I spent in Zlin was really great and unforgettable - great people, many new fantastic friendships, that will forever stay in my heart and what is also important, I got many artistic inspirations. The atmosphere at your festival is so great I can't to imagine life without it. I hope that i will manage to lead my new project to production. And I will have an excuse to come.
PETER MACHEN
United Kingdom / Actor, screenwriter
It was amazing, fantastic and a great honour! I hope to see you and the wonderful festival that is Zlin Film Festival in the not too distant future. We were really pleased with the festival and the kindness and the hospitality that we experienced there. Everybody were so friendly and nice and the whole organisation around the festival was great. This was quite an experience! I loved how there was so many different activities and things to see and do around the festival as well. We had a great time in Zlín!
KATJA DOR-HELMER
Austria / Producer
It was a great pleasure and honor for me to be at your festival. I really enjoyed your hospitality and the lovely atmosphere. It was wonderful to be able to watch so many different films and talk about them with interesting jury members from all over the world.
Before...
TOBIAS WIEMANN
Germany/Film director
It was an amazing experience to attend the ZFF. I have never seen such an enthusiastic audience before. We have to take care of our children and listening to them is so important. This festival does both perfectly and with its hospitality, professionalism and friendly atmosphere it is one of my favourite festivals.
MARJO KOVANEN
Finland
it was absolutely a great opportunity to spend a marvelous week in your beautiful town. I was very happy to surround myself with extraordinary history, film tradition and contemporary lively film culture. It was wonderful to visit this enormous festival dedicated solely to children´s film which also is executed with such an enthusiasm and high competence.
ELLA LEMHAGEN
Sweden/Film director
I was delighted to be invited to the well respected Zlin Film Festival, and I had such a great time there, at the screenings and the other events. I also appreciated to meet colleagues and new friends from all over the world. Thank you so much! I hope to be able to come back to Zlinfest one day.
PRITHVI KONANUR
India/Film director
The warm energy I felt with you is unique. And the fact that it is in a city with the amazing history of the origin of Bata makes it even special. It actually makes me happy to see children being able to be just children and have fun while celebrating films. Wishing for greater things for you in the future.
SLÁVEK HORÁK
Czech Republic/Film director
I had an incredibly wonderful time in Zlín. Everything was perfect in every way. For me my stay was a perfect holiday. I had no idea before that you are so big and so well organized and with so many great films. I will come back to you as soon as possible.
ARNO ASCHAUER
Austria/Film director
Here, and only here, the power is present, in all its beauty, its fright, its drama: The Cinematographic Power of Storytelling. I feel deeply grateful for this experience, thanks to the 57th International Film Festival and its organizers.
PETROS CHARALAMBOUS
Cyprus/Film director
What a wonderful festival made by beautiful, welcoming, passionate, hospitable, smiling and professional people! I enjoyed each moment-from the screenings to the city tours! A great festival to attend with a film that justifies the title of the biggest and oldest festival in the world for children! But most importantly cultivates the film culture to young audiences and creates the future cinema lovers! Thank you for everything!
MITSUO TAHIRA
Japan/Director of the International Film Children´s Film Festival KINEKO
You are very special to me. I feel each staff as my family. Ms. Keiko Toda tells her great experience she had in Zlin to many Japanese medias. At last, one of the most I like of Zlin Film Festival is its members and staffs. I will always support Zlin Film Festival from far east country, Japan.
NATALIA MALYKHINA
Russia/Animator and director
Thank you for your hospitality. Everything was wonderful - program, weather and organization. Just very sorry that I was not able to see as much films as I wanted to! Support programs for the guests were also very interesting. And I fell in love in your Bata shoe shop. Hope to come next year to buy me more Bata.
JO-ANNE BLOUIN
Canada/Director of the Children's Film Festival in Montreal
The Zlín festival is fantastic! It is one of the best I've ever visited. Not only do you get to see a wide range of films for children and teenagers here, but also the work of young filmmakers.
MICHAEL HARBAUER
Germany/Director of the Festival for Children and Young Audience Schlingel
This is a very warm-hearted and welcoming film festival. Thank you so much for the hospitality that not only I, but also the children's jury got to enjoy! I'm happy to have contributed to the establishment of friendship between the Zlín Film Festival and the Schlingel Festival in Germany.
HUGH O´CONOR
Ireland/Actor
It was a great honor to be part of Zlín's film festival. My reception was incredibly friendly and the choice of films for children and adults was great.
STANA KATIC
Canada/Actress
The film festival in Zlín was a great experience. I liked the city and I was captivated by the Baťa skyscraper. The entire building impressed me. As a member of the jury, I had to see a lot of films. The screenings of the competitive films were very emotional and the movies took my breath away. And the best thing about a festival like this is that you get to meet other filmmakers. I have a wide range of beautiful memories from Zlín's film festival. It was great.
JAN HŘEBEJK
Czech Republic/Film director
The festival has the advantage of traditionally taking place at the start of summer when Zlín has such beautiful weather. So apart from its film program it also provides many attractions that are not film-related. That's why it's so popular with guests. It might be necessary to stress that even adult film fans come to this festival. This year (2011) there was a wonderful series of classic Italian and Hungarian films.
JIŘÍ MENZEL
Czech Republic/Film director
There are so few pleasant family festivals in the world such as the one in Zlín. It's not quite small, but while there one feels like at home among their own family.
GUNNAR KARLSSON
Iceland/Illustrator, animator
I knew beforehand that the best beer in the world is in Zlín, but it came as a pleasant surprise to find out that the best and biggest children film festival is to be found there as well. It is an inspiration and an honor for any filmmaker to get the opportunity to experience the hospitality and the atmosphere of this children's-film-loving city.
ALAIN GSPONER
Switzerland/Film director
I enjoyed my time as a jury member very much. I’ve participated in so many festivals around the world, but you are extraordinary. I went trough the city and it seemed that every square, every large lawn, every corner celebrated you. The whole city was the festival. The level of the films in the youth section was extremely high. Each movie could be the winner, all of them were so strong, and it was a hard job to make the right decision.
DANIEL HUTTLESTONE
United Kingdom/Actor
Thank you so much for all the support you gave me. I really enjoyed my time and experience out in Zlin and would love to come back next year. Thank you once again all the best.
KIRSTEN CARTHEW
Canada/Film director
The festival exceeded all expectations. The lineup was fantastic and we were so thrilled to meet so many talented filmmakers and industry influencers from around the globe. Clearly, yours is a festival that has a legacy of experience – everything was so beautifully organized, easy, and smart. The leadership of the festival is outstanding – such that everyone we met, from the drivers, to the interns, to your fantastic programmers, were all so wonderful, generous and detail-oriented.
DANIEL BERGMAN
Sweden/Film director
Thank you for hospitality, kindness and wonderful care on me and my daughter as guests at the Zlin film festival. Thank you for having us at the 2017 edition.
EFIM GRABOY
Israel/Film director
Every time I'm thinking about those days in Zlín, I'm a happy person. I'm thankful for this event and everybody around it gave me so much inspiration to live now, to create now. Zlin you will always have a warm part in my heart. And i hope we will meet soon again. Thank to all to people that are working on that event.
DAGMAR PETRICK
Germany
It has been such a good and enchanting experience, we leave entirely enriched and there is only one thing left to say: Thank you for those precious days, the superb choice of films, the highly professional organization, the hearty welcome, the thrilling atmosphere which involved the entire city! You had the whole world come to Zlín and the world loved to be there. Thank you so much and all the very best for future celebrations!
PETER MACHEN
United Kingdom/Screenwriter, actor
My time at Zlin was fantastic. It's a festival that many others would have a lot to learn from. To see the whole town involved and to create such a positive atmosphere really is a brilliant accomplishment. I felt that it really was a celebration of film, of storytelling and of expertise. The quality of films at the festival was very high and there were some with very challenging subject matter. To have won a Golden Slipper with our first feature was amazing and beyond our expectations. It gives us energy and conviction and helps with all our new projects. What an inspiration you are. To encourage and champion youth, to give them a voice and a choice.
TAWFEEK BARHOM
Israel/Actor
I hope everything went well in festival and now you’re taking a good rest that you deserve. I just want to thank you for wonderful days I’ve had in Zlín. Was a great therapy for me being in this beautiful city. I especially enjoyed the people and your beautiful mind. Hope we’ll get to meet again. I’d love to get contact list of « young stars » as I’d love to keep in contact.
FRODO KUIPERS
Netherlands/Animation director, animator
The Zlín Film Festival was a great experience for me! It gave me the opportunity to enjoy its fantastic atmosphere, very good organization and the opportunity to meet lots of interesting people. Thank you very much, Zlín!
MARTIN MCCANN
Ireland/Actor
From the moment I arrived at the Zlin Film Festival, I was overwhelmed by the festival's energy and the way I was greeted. I was lucky to have experienced the celebration of Irish film at the festival, which made the whole thing even more special. People were friendly and nice. I felt real warmth and appreciation over the fact than I took part at this growing festival
MARIA DOYLE KENNEDY
Ireland/Actress
Thank you Zlín. We had a beautiful time at your festival. We were welcomed with warmth and were taken care of as a royal family. We had a chance to meet several interesting, creative people. I am more than grateful for the intelligent and thoughtful film programme. I left with a large list of films I have to watch. Thank you!
IVAN BARNEV
Bulgaria/Actor
My stay in Zlín was great. This was my first time at a festival for children and young people and I was really happy to gain some experience in such an atmosphere. And for that, I was invited to do something that I like best – watch movies! To tell the truth, I didn't know anything about Zlín's festival before my visit, but I was surprised to find out that it is one of the most important film festivals in Europe and that it has a huge amount of diverse films from all over the world.
SCOTT D. ROSENBAUM
USA/Film director
I must admit I was unsure how my film, an American independent picture, would be received in a country with such a rich cinematic history. Having the privilege to screen, "The Perfect Age of Rock 'n' Roll," on the opening night at the Grand Cinema was one of the most gratifying experiences of my career. The audiences response and appreciation for the film was something I will never forget. The festival was so well organized, so gracious in welcoming me.
JOEL HALEY OSMENT
USA/Actor
What you do for young audiences is overwhelming.
MICHEL GALABRU
France/Actor
Having a cinema crammed with children was an amazing experience. This festival truly has an enchanting atmosphere.
LINDE FRÖHLICH
Germany/Artistic Director of the Nordic Film Days Lübeck
I spent a very good time in the extraordinary City of Zlín and I was very impressed by the amazing history, tradition and architecture of the city. Whenever I will remember the summer of I will remember the nice people I met at the festival. They were all so friendly and dedicated and have given their best to make us feel good and to make the festival a success. It was very well organized and had a very pleasant atmosphere and above all a high-quality program.
ROK GOVEDNIK
Slovenia/Director of film educational institute Vizo and festival director of Eye on Film festival
When I came to Zlín in 2015 for a first time, it amazed me at first sight. Perfectly organized, fulfilled with so wide programme, for children, professionals, in parks, in conference rooms and especially in cinemas. The variety of your film programme is wonderful every year and truly the best guide for preparing my own film festival for children and youth in Slovenia.
ALICE SCHMID
Switzerland/Documentary filmmaker
It's a dream for every director to be invited to the world’s oldest children's film festival Zlín with the most popular Golden Slipper as a trophy.
MIRA FORSELL
Sweden/Child actress
I thougt it was wery fun to be at the Zlin Film Festival. I am proud and glad that my movie Up in the Sky was a part of the festival. I went there with my Mother, and we had a nice time and was really taken care of. I enjoyed all the activities for kids in Zlin, for example the great playgroung in the park and the lovely Zoo. Hope to se you again!
NATALIE MINNEVIK
Sweden/Actress
I felt very welcome as a guest to this beautiful festival and wonderful town. Everywhere I went, both in the festival area and in town, I was greeted with happiness and warmth. I will cherish the memories from this festival. I will remember the open and inspiring atmosphere, wonderful gala-evening and all nice new friends that I met.
JURAJ NVOTA
Slovakia/Film director
I am grateful for your invitation and thank you for the infusion of young inspirational films and for many new friendships. The festival has a great atmosphere and with its concept it is like any event in the world. I wish the festival lots of love and understanding.
ANN VIKSTROM
Canada/Program director of the Chicago International Children´s Film Festival
Thank you for the outstanding job you did in making us feel on top of our obligations, comfortable in our surroundings, and at ease at all times. Can't speak for my jury members, but I know I already have a very warm memory of our experience. It was an honor, privilege, and very special treat to serve this season.
TIM CLAGUE
United Kingdom/Film director
Thank you for such a warm welcome this year. It was my first time at Zlin but it was like I was meeting up again with old friends. Here in the UK, we don’t make many films for children, so we don’t have many colleagues who can offer good support and guidance. Zlin was like finding a whole new family, which was exciting and so useful as we start to make our next movie.
FREDERIK NØRGAARD
Denmark/Actor, writer and director
Thank you for an amazing week. It was a great treat to experience your passion for film on literally every street corner. The spirit and heart flows through every official, guest and audience member, who escaped the beautiful weather into the world of cinema. In my mind Zlin FILMFEST is exactly that, a fest for film, and the reason why festivals exists and are important not just for the local audience but for film as an art form. I’ll be back.
MEHRAM AMROHI
India/Film director
To all the children-film makers around the globe, here is my suggestion for you all that you should attend this beautiful, delightful and elegant film festival called "Zlin international film festival", you guys can thank me later. I am very thankful to the entire festival team for that great warmth.
JACCO GROEN
Netherlands/Film director
I'm truly grateful that festivals like the one in Zlín exist. In my opinion, it is a unique, well organized event with a friendly atmosphere. I'm grateful for being part of all this
MARTIN DUFFY
Ireland/Screenwriter, film director and editor
I had a wonderful time at Zlín's film festival. When I was at the festival, I once again saw the warm and willing smiles that I miss. My work in the jury was interesting. The joy of being among such warm and fantastic people – that will be what I remember most from my stay.
PATRICK MCCABE
Ireland/Writer
Zlín Film Festival is very unique, full of vitality, excitement and enthusiasm. It may be the best festival of its kind and with its concentration of youth and children makes sure that film magic in the modern world is in good hands. Bravo, Zlín!!
YOUKI YAMAMOTO
Japan/Film music composer
This festival is not only supported by children, film critics and film professionals, but by the whole city and its surroundings. Its warmth ranks at the top of all the festivals I have visited. I'm extremely thankful to the festival for giving me the opportunity to participate at such an exceptional event and I hope that I'll return to Zlín soon.
JODIE WHITTAKER
United Kingdom/Actress
I had a wonderful time at the festival and felt incredibly welcome. It was fantastic seeing all those children enjoying films from across the world. I hope the festival's success continues for many years to come.
SIR CHRISTOPHER LEE
United Kingdom/Actor
It was the most marvelous experience to attend the Zlín Film Festival. It was such an interesting event, so well organized and the professionalism together with everybody's hospitality and charm, made it very unique. I am not surprised that it has been going on for so many years! With all my best wishes.
ANDREJ CHALIMON
Russia/Actor
The festival center is truly first class among international standards. I've never seen another festival like this. If I were invited to Zlín, I wouldn't hesitate. And when I was, I immediately agreed. There was nothing to decide.
ROCK DEMERS
Canada/Film lover, as well as producer and ex-distributor
How many times have I been to ZLÍN? 15 times? 20 times... since the first time in 1963! But always as if it was for the first time. The gentleness of each person involved in the organization. So professionally organized. The quality and the size of the programming is stunning. The meetings with friends and professionals from all over the world. Long life to the ZLÍN FILM FESTIVAL!