Film Delegations Bring Their Stories to Zlín – Part 2

That is precisely why it is so important to welcome film delegations from around the world. They come not only to present their films, but also to remind us that every film is created by real people. And sometimes, it is their own stories that stay with audiences even longer than the screening itself.

As one Polish festival visitor put it:

The Zlín Film Festival is about more than film. It is about empathy, compassion, openness, and the deep respect shown by its young audiences.

Those words perfectly capture this second collection of festival moments. So let us continue our journey through the festival and revisit more occasions when Zlín's cinemas became places filled with energy, genuine human connection, and heartfelt openness.

An Irish Fleadh in Zlín

Searching for a voice that is truly her own, somewhere between tradition and freedom. That is the tagline of the new Irish film TRAD, which celebrated its international premiere in Zlín in the company of two leading figures of contemporary Irish cinema – director Lance Daly (Kisses, Black '47) and actor Aidan Gillen (Game of Thrones, Sing Street, Peaky Blinders). The festival's true star, however, was young actor and musician Dallán Woods. Together with his father, Jim, he gave audiences a taste of an authentic Irish music session. Showcasing their talents on the flute and the traditional Irish frame drum known as the bodhrán, their impromptu performances filled the festival with Irish spirit, joy and infectious energy. Audiences embraced that energy from the very first note, rewarding the delegation with standing ovations after every performance.

We had such a great time over with you. What a brilliant festival. Thanks again for looking after us. Hope to catch up soon,

said Dallán and Jim Woods, reflecting on their unforgettable experience in Zlín.

   

  

The TRAD delegation left Zlín with more than unforgettable memories. They also took home two awards – the Audience Award and the Youth Jury Award – while many festival-goers could undoubtedly tick off "Biggest Festival Highlight" in their own mental festival diaries.

The warm hospitality and heartfelt welcome extended by the people of Zlín left a lasting impression on the Irish guests.

I had a great time, we all did. Thanks again for having us and all the great hospitality etc. See you again in the future hopefully,

said actor Aidan Gillen. Director Lance Daly shared the sentiment, adding: "We felt welcome and thanks to you and all your helpers for everything you did in that regard."

In India, We Love Bata and Škoda

Audiences attending the Indian film Don't Tell Mother experienced more than just its European premiere. Although the film is a powerful drama about an Indian family, its large delegation brought with it a vibrant glimpse of authentic Indian hospitality and culture. Director Anoop Lokkur, whose own difficult childhood inspired this remarkable film, chose to send two of its actors – Siddarth Swaroop and Karthik Nagarajan – to the faraway city of Zlín.

The actors were accompanied by their families, bringing the same warmth and close-knit family spirit to the post-screening discussion. Young lead actor Siddarth Swaroop clearly relished the attention from the audience.

In Zlín, they made me feel like a king,

he said, adding another memorable moment by surprising audiences with his impressive knowledge of Škoda cars.

   

  

Karthik Nagarajan, who plays the boy's father in the film, was equally fascinated by the history of the festival's host city. He admitted that he had always assumed the Bata brand – so popular throughout India – originated in his own country.

In every street, even in the most remote corners of India, people know Bata. Even to this day, my son wears Bata, just like my friends and I did in the nineties. Many people think Bata is Indian, but now I know it isn't,

he said after discovering the city where the Bata shoe empire began.

Finding the Courage to Speak Out

An extraordinary connection between audience and filmmakers emerged during the screening of the Danish coming-of-age competition film Weightless, directed by Emilie Thalund. The film follows fifteen-year-old Lea, who succumbs to social pressure and attends a weight-loss camp in the hope of changing her appearance. Joining the director in Zlín was lead actress Marie Helweg Augustsen, who, like her character, has experienced body shaming herself.

Marie spoke candidly about those painful experiences, inspiring audience members to share similar stories of their own. In doing so, Weightless joined a number of festival discussions that became spaces of reflection and healing, where filmmakers and audiences alike felt able to speak openly. Director Emilie Thalund deeply appreciated the honesty and openness of the conversation:

The audience was so warm, open, and very thoughtful.

That mutual openness helped create a safe and welcoming environment—one the young Danish actress will remember with great affection.

I felt so welcome in Zlín from the very start. All the people were so amazing,

added Marie Helweg Augustsen with gratitude.