It is an enormous honor and joy for me that we’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of Mezipatra together this year. Over these 25 years, our festival has not only grown into the biggest queer film festival in Central and Eastern Europe, but it has also become a symbol for the community and Czech society as a whole. Mezipatra is more than a festival – it has evolved into a platform connecting different worlds, where queer culture intersects with a broader social dialogue.

At international festivals, we always encounter people who already know Mezipatra and appreciate the work we do – spreading queer stories that shape the world and contributing to the emancipation of gender minorities. This way, we have become an integral part of the global queer film scene, and it fills us with pride, but also with a sense of responsibility.

Mezipatra isn’t just about the films. It’s about creating a space where queer people can find safety, understanding, and inspiration. The feedback we regularly get from you is what drives us to keep going. We often hear stories about how queer people bring their friends and families to the festival. It’s their opportunity to show their loved ones not only films, but also what it means to be a part of a proud community.

Looking ahead, I have several wishes for Mezipatra. I wish that the festival continues being a safe haven for queer people and their loved ones, a place of security and inspiration. That we keep screening stories which move humanity forward and help educate Czech society about diversity and the importance of acceptance. Great queer stories on the big screen – that’s what has the power to change the world.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of our journey – our audiences, filmmakers, volunteers, and all those who believe in the power of film as a means of change. Without you, Mezipatra wouldn’t be what it is today. Thank you for the wonderful 25 years and I am looking forward to what the future holds.

Pavel Bicek
festival director