The 27th Sarajevo Film Festival kicked off on Friday evening with an opening ceremony at the National Theatre in Sarajevo and the premiere of the film 'Not so friendly neighbourhood affairs' film by Bosnian Oscar-winner Danis Tanovic.

Scores of tourists from all over the world have come to Bosnia’s capital to attend the biggest regional film festival, which will last until August 20 and will feature more than 250 films from nearly 60 countries.

Only those who provide a negative COVID-19 test, evidence of vaccination or recovery are allowed to attend the events this year. Last year, the event took place exclusively online due to the pandemic.

A total of 47 movies will compete for the Heart of Sarajevo award this year in four competition categories – feature film, documentary, short and student film, and 18 will have their world premiere, while 24 films will have their regional premiere.

Film screenings will take place across several locations in Sarajevo, as well as in Mostar, where a parallel opening ceremony was organised.
Screenings will also be available on the festival’s online platform.

This year’s Honorary Heart of Sarajevo will go to German filmmaker, playwright, author and photographer Wim Wenders. The festival will pay tribute to the famous director and the guests will have an opportunity to see a retrospective of his selected work in the festival’s ‘Tribute to’ programme.

At this year’s edition of SFF, the Honorary Heart of Sarajevo will also be awarded to Michel Franco, the recipient of the award in 2020, will also formally receive the award as he could not do so last year due to the pandemic.

In addition to the main Box Office in downtown Sarajevo, the tickets can also be purchased online.