With the launch of the 25th edition of Mezipatra, we're bringing you more film recommendations! You already know the picks from our programmers. But which films have captured the hearts of our festival director Pavel Bicek and program coordinator Kristýna Genttnerová?
Pavel Bicek Recommends: Unvarnished Realities of Queer Life Around the World
The Beauty of Gaza (La belle de Gaza) • France • 2024 • 76 min
Poverty, sexual violence, inequality, and discrimination. Such is the life of some queer individuals in Tel Aviv. French director Yolande Zauberman presents it unembellished, without the common polish seen in similar films. I was deeply moved by the personal stories of mostly Arab trans women, their everyday struggles as well as joys — finding comfort and support in relationships, community, religion, or within themselves.
Baby • Brazil, France, Netherlands • 2024 • 107 min
This acclaimed film also reflects the harsh reality of marginalized lives. Its protagonist, "Baby," finds himself alone, penniless, and without family in the streets of São Paulo after being released from a reformatory. He starts exploring the world of sex work and discovers new layers of interpersonal relationships. I’m thrilled that director Marcelo Caetano will personally present the film in Prague. Will we meet at the discussion?
Kristýna Genttnerová Recommends: Music, Love, Freedom!
Fragments of a Life Loved (Střípky z milostného života) • Italy • 2023 • 95 min
Director Chloé Barreau decided to let her life be narrated by her former lovers. On the faces of these uniquely open and expressive people, you can see joy, old heartaches, and above all, love. A continuous wave of emotion swept over me during this year's film selection, and I surfaced feeling both relaxed and full of new thoughts. I wish you a similar cathartic experience with this cinematic love story.
Reas • Argentina, Germany, Switzerland • 2024 • 82 min
Since its screening at Berlinale, I haven’t been able to shake the beat-heavy song sung by the main character, Yoseli, in this film, which boasts detailed scenography and a playful script. Former inmates act out their own and others’ prison stories in a crumbling prison, and as these likable, energetic characters dance their way through their performances, they’re sure to find a place in your heart.
Closing of the Prague Segment
The film Reas will be screened after the official closing ceremony of the Prague segment of the festival, which will take place on November 13 at Lucerna Cinema. During the closing event, the audience can look forward to the announcement of awards for the best feature and best short film. This year, 10 feature films will compete for the main jury award, and 41 short films will vie for the student jury award. Winning films will be shown again on November 14 at Světozor Cinema. The festival will then move to Brno, where it will culminate on November 22 with a closing ceremony announcing the audience award winner.
