“I would like to thank everyone who has supported our appeal which has played its vital role in helping us to overcome our problems,” stated Fero Fenič founder of Febiofest. “We have managed to find a new general partner. Unfortunately so far we have only secured a one year contract with our partners and this sponsorship has made us precariously unique in the festival world, something that in the future we would like to change..,” said F. Fenič.
Two important guests
Even though Febiofests representatives never reveal in advance which guests are coming, this year it has been leaked ( our sources wished to remain anonymous) that we can expect two stars – Italian director Fridrik Thór Fridriksson and the illustrious American cameraman Edward Lachman. Lachman is over the moon about coming to Prague, he is not just going to stay a day or two as is standard for a star of his caliber, he will be staying for a longer visit and is planning to absorb the city sights and delights as much as he can… and also go to the cinema. Lachman has shot many highly praised films such as Far from Heaven, Life During War, We are not Playing Tomorrow, Erin Brockovich, Ken Park or Howl. Decisions and notification of other stars who will make their appearance, mainly top actors and actresse, will no doubt be leaked later on.
From the airport straight to heaven
This year is already the 18th year of Febiofest and it will once again be furthering its strong tradition of movie production in public places. This time it will be Prague’s airport, terminal 2, where they will be showing films with flying themes. At the airport the entry fee to the cinema is free and you can look forward to seeing films such as Stolen Airship by Zeman or Mr Tau – Panic in the sky.
It is a no go for Havel
The festival’s film reels will be set spinning from 24th March until 1st April at the multi cinema Cinestar Anděl which is also preparing a whole range of new movies to show. Unfortunately, Leaving by Václav Havel, is not going to be one of them although it was initially promised. Producer Jaroslav Bouček is concerned that by revealing the production at the Febiofest, it would take some of the wind out of its sails when making its debut at international festivals outside of the Czech Republic. For the first time the opening film will not be by a Czech film maker.
Supporting programs and Kristian
Febiofest is traditionally accompanied by a music festival as well as space in front of Cinestar Anděl which will be used for an art exhibition. This time it will be an exhibition of wrought objects by Moravian sculptor Leopold Habermann. The Febiofest poster connects and combines these various art forms; the event will be inaugurated by singer Eva Pilarová.
Slight rise in price
Although tickets to Febiofest have risen slightly in price to 85CZK this year compared to 79CZK from last year they are still great value. The slight increase in price is due to Cinestar’s higher sponsorship of the winning foreign film. When it comes to the Kristian prize, this year it will not be declared in a category by film critics but important overseas guests will add their perspective of cinematography into the pot.
