This year’s Pop Up Film Residency has emerged as a fertile ground for exceptional talent, with three projects currently taking the spotlight at the prestigious Coproduction Forums in Thessaloniki and Cottbus.
Hrvatski Audiovizualni Centar’s Recognition:
The Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC) has presented a €5,000 cash award toward the development of a standout project. This accolade was bestowed upon MY WORLD UPSIDE DOWN, directed and produced by Daniel Rihák and co-produced by Martina Saková (WHAT IF Films, Slovakia & Projector23, Germany). The film, a participant in both Pop Up Visegrad 2023 and Slovak Pop Up 2021, showcases the program’s commitment to fostering collaboration and supporting projects with significant potential.
Producers’ Network Award to “Lady Sunshine”:
In a notable addition to the accolades, Anna Szijártó of Hungarian Kinomoto Kft. was awarded The Producers’ Network award, which includes free Marché du Film accreditation to the Cannes Film Festival in 2024. The winning project, “Lady Sunshine” by Anna Korom, explores the life of an aging beautician too fond of plastic surgeries whose world transforms when she enters a talent competition. This recognition adds another layer of distinction to the Pop Up Film Residency’s ability to identify and support projects with immense promise.
Initiative Film Award for “So the Lovers Could Come Out Again”:
Adding to the list of successes, “So the Lovers Could Come Out Again,” directed by George Peter Barbari and produced by Christelle Younes (Bee On Set Productions), has secured an award from Initiative Film. This award, offering consulting services for its development strategy, further emphasizes the industry’s recognition of the Pop Up Film Residency’s ability to cultivate and elevate exceptional projects.
As three Pop Up Film Residency projects captivate audiences at the Coproduction Forum in Thessaloniki and Cottbus, the program continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of European cinema. These successes underscore the importance of initiatives like Pop Up Film Residency in providing a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent, connect with industry professionals, and secure crucial support for the development of their projects.