Zlín Is Set to Shine Bright on the Global Film Map!
19. May 2025
We’ve got great news for fans of international flair, inspiring personalities, and global cinema—Zlín is about to transform once again into a vibrant melting pot of film. For one exciting week, the city will welcome guests from around the world, many of whom will share their work and insights in a series of special masterclasses.
The range of international guests and countries represented will be truly diverse. So, who can you look forward to meeting?
From the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, acclaimed director and animator Will Becher, a longtime member of the Aardman studio, will take audiences behind the scenes of puppet animation. In his Masterclass with Will Becher: Breating Life into Stillness – The Wonderful World of Wallace & Gromit, he’ll explore the making of the new film Vengeance Most Fowl on Tuesday, June 3 at 5 p.m.
From Canada, filmmaker Dominic James will focus on the power of engaging, inspirational storytelling in his masterclass. Drawing from the work of Les Productions La Fête – renowned for character-driven family entertainment – his session will take place on Saturday, May 31 at 4:30 p.m.
From Norway, director Christian Lo will share his personal journey into children’s cinema. Why does he believe stories for young viewers are the most meaningful? What makes a truly great film for kids and teens? Find out in the Masterclass with Christian Lo on Directing for Young Audiences, on Saturday, May 31 at 5 p.m.
From Japan, film critic and writer Michael Leader will present his masterclass Forever Young: Childhoo and Coming of Age in the Films of Studio Ghibli. Join him on Saturday at 6 p.m. for an insightful look at childhood and adolescence in the works of Hayao Miyazaki and the globally celebrated Studio Ghibli.
And don’t miss the chance to attend a special Meet an Icon of the Japonese Film Industry session with Mr. Yoshishige Shimatani, a key figure in the Japanese film industry. As head of leading distribution company TOHO and executive director of the Motion Picture Producers Association of Japan, his insights are not to be missed. This exclusive session is set for Sunday, June 1 at 4 p.m.
Preparations for Zlín’s cinematic melting pot are in full swing – don’t miss your chance to experience fascinating encounters, compelling films, and an exciting program of events. Want to know what’s happening each day? Follow our website for the latest updates straight from the heart of the festival!