Karlovy Vary Film Festival Draws Crowds, Marked by Loss of President Jiří Bartoška
A vibrant atmosphere surrounds the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, as attendees navigate the program and reflect on the legacy of its recently deceased president. The annual event continues to draw significant crowds to the Czech Republic, fostering intergenerational connections and solidifying the city’s international cultural standing.
A festival-goer, arriving on Wednesday evening, expressed eagerness to experience the event despite a busy schedule. “I have had different duties until now. I haven’t managed to study the whole program yet. Perhaps I will still get a ticket,” she said, immediately seeking out the festival newspaper to familiarize herself with the offerings.
The festival’s opening ceremony was widely viewed, with one resident of Karlovy Vary, Mrs. Vlasta, noting, “Of course, I watched the opening ceremony on TV.” She emphasized the festival’s impact on the city’s global recognition, stating, “Thanks to the international cultural event, the city became famous far beyond the Czech Republic. There are many people come here. And the festival connects generations.”
For many, the festival is a long-held tradition. One attendee recounted a decades-long connection, beginning in their youth. “I came here with my friend since my eighteen. We always watched when interesting guests arrived. Sometimes we were lucky and got an autograph,” they shared, recalling early experiences with the event. Their involvement later extended to working at the Thermal Hotel, where they reminisced, “I was doing in the office, so I have a lot of memories of this place.”
However, this year’s festival is tinged with sadness following the passing of actor and festival president Jiří Bartoška in May. A long-time observer of the festival spoke fondly of Bartoška and his wife, Eva Zaoral, saying, “I really liked him and Eva Zaoral. They formed a nice and flawless couple.” The sentiment was expressed while observing the ticket sales at the Thermal Hotel’s cash register.
Despite the somber note, the spirit of the festival endures. “I hope to make at least one projection. I don’t have a completely selected picture, but it’s a very nice tradition for me,” one attendee concluded, highlighting the enduring appeal of the Karlovy Vary Film Festival and its place in the cultural calendar.
