Science fiction in the spotlight at this year’s Anifilm festival
The annual Anifilm Festival of animated films kicks off this Tuesday in the northern Bohemian town of Liberec. Over the course of six days, audiences can look forward to dozens of screenings, but also exhibitions, concerts and workshops, across various venues throughout the town. I spoke with programme coordinator Radek Hosenseidl to find out more:
This year's main theme is science fiction in animation. What inspired this choice and how is it reflected throughout the programme?
“Well, we've been thinking about focusing on sci-fi for several years now because we've always believed that animation is an ideal medium for science fiction. Animation is borderless—there are no limits to what you can create—so it's perfect for exploring the worlds of sci-fi.
“In the meantime, as we waited for the right moment, several classic science fiction films have been remastered and restored. We're very excited to finally be able to showcase these films as part of this year's programme.”
Can you mention at least some of the films that you are talking about?
“Sure. We have several feature films that will be screened out of competition. Among them are three great classics by the French director René Laloux: Fantastic Planet, which was a French-Czechoslovak co-production, as well as Light Years and Time Masters.
“We’re also presenting other cult classics like Ghost in the Shell, the iconic Japanese film from 1995, and Paprika, another visually stunning film from Japan.”
Which feature films are competing at this year's Anifilm and will there be any Czech productions among them?
“The feature film competition is traditionally divided into two sections—films for adult audiences and films for children.
“In the adult category, we have a wonderful, surreal piece called Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass by the Quay brothers, a renowned surrealistic duo. It's based on a book by Bruno Schulz, so it’s definitely one to watch.
“We also have a new film by Australian filmmaker Adam Elliott, known for his unique bittersweet humour. His latest work is titled Memoir of a Snail.
“In the children’s competition, we have a Czech representative called Living Large, directed by Kristina Dufková. There's also the Oscar-winning film Flow, which is another standout in the line-up.”
You have already mentioned the Quay brothers. Can you share some other highlights from this year's guest list? Who can visitors look forward to meeting in Liberec?
“Unfortunately, we were disappointed to learn that the Quay brothers won't be able to attend the festival in person this year.
“However, we do have some other fantastic guests, such as Tomek Popakul, a Polish director known for his innovative short films. Another highlight is Thomas Renoldner, an Austrian artist with a distinctive voice in abstract animation—he also brings a great sense of humour to his work. I highly recommend attending his masterclass and screenings.
“We’re also excited to welcome Diana Cam Van Nguyen, a Czech-Vietnamese filmmaker whose work often explores her experience growing up in the Czech Republic with Vietnamese roots, so it’s a very interesting perspective as well.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award is being presented to Vratislav Hlavatý, a legendary figure in Czech animation and graphic design. What can you tell us about his work and why he's being honoured this year?
“We chose to honour Vratislav Hlavatý because of his distinctive artistic style and exceptional sense of humour. He has worked extensively as a graphic designer, creating film posters and children's book illustrations. He's also known for his love of ballooning, which reflects his playful and whimsical spirit, which shows in his work.”
Apart from the film screenings, what else is on the programme for festival visitors?
“We’ve already mentioned Vratislav Hlavatý, and visitors can enjoy an exhibition of his work at the regional gallery in Liberec. In addition to that, there's an exhibition dedicated to the film Living Large, which is also worth seeing.
“We have concerts nearly every evening in the garden of the chateau and of course, there will be lectures and masterclasses hosted by our international juries. So there is really a lot to look forward to!”
