Children’s and Youth Juries Enraptured by TRAD, Pumpkin Village, and The Naughty Bench
03. June 2026
We know the first film winners of the 66th Zlín Film Festival! This year, the Children’s and Youth Juries were most captivated by the feature film Pumpkin Village and the short animated film The Naughty Bench. The Irish film TRAD, which the famous actor Aidan Gillen came to present personally in Zlín, also scored points. The remaining awards will be presented this afternoon and during the festive gala evening.
The feature film Pumpkin Village (Great Britain, Canada, USA / 2025) follows young Charlie, who moves in with her eccentric Aunt Dinah on a farm in a secluded Scottish town that boasts the title of the "pumpkin capital." Every year, a spectacular competition for the biggest pumpkin takes place here, and it is this very event that becomes the centerpiece of Charlie's new life.
Pumpkin Village captivated us with its sensitive and beautifully crafted story. It takes place in a wonderful environment and shows how important perseverance is, as well as the joy found in ordinary things, like growing pumpkins. Friendship and mutual support also play a major role here, giving the film a powerful and heartwarming atmosphere,
evaluated the Children’s Jury, led by chairperson Amálie Pasternová.
The Children’s Jury Award for Short Animated Films for Children went to the film The Naughty Bench (GBR, 2025).
Our winning animated film was very entertaining and cute. It caught our attention with its interesting and understandable story, which even younger children can easily comprehend,
stated jury chairperson Ema Skřivánková.
We really liked the high-quality animation and the cuteness of the characters. The humor was well-executed and worked for both children and adults, so truly everyone could enjoy the film. It kept us entertained from start to finish and had a pleasant appeal for all age groups.
An immense response was then garnered by the film TRAD (IRL, 2026), which won the Youth Jury Award for Best Feature Film for Adolescents and Youth.
Lance Daly's film Trad deserves the jury's award for its authenticity, emotional strength, and celebration of human togetherness,
said jury chairperson Alma Mlichová.
Set against the backdrop of a rich Irish musical tradition, TRAD follows young people searching for their own identity, freedom, and a sense of belonging. Here, music does not merely serve as a means of self-expression, but as a force that unites people.
The film's authenticity is enhanced by the performances of the actors, who are also musicians, and the character of Harky, inspired by a real person, adds a profound emotional dimension to the story. Through its honest storytelling, it offers a reflection on identity, community, and the enduring power of tradition.