The summer days of the ZFF will be held from July 14 to 18 at the Summer Stage of Tuscany

The Summer Days of the Zagreb Film Festival will take place from July 14th to 17th at the Tuškanac Open-Air Theatre. This annual event continues to showcase a diverse selection of international cinema, offering audiences a chance to experience new and acclaimed films under the open sky. The festival has become a significant cultural attraction in Croatia, drawing both local and international visitors who enjoy the unique atmosphere of outdoor screenings combined with cinematic storytelling. The festival opens on Tuesday, July 14th, with the winner of the 23rd Zagreb Film Festival and the best film from the 31st Sarajevo Film Festival, Vjetre, pričaj sa mnom, the debut feature by Stefan Đorđević. This emotionally rich film explores themes of life, loss, and pain, featuring members of Đorđević's family in a narrative that skillfully blends reality, fiction, and memory. It delves into the timeless relationship between mother and son, offering viewers a deeply personal and introspective journey. On Wednesday, July 15th, the focus shifts to a coming-of-age story titled Kada te je strah staviš srce u usta i nasmiješiš se. Directed by Austrian filmmaker and punk musician Marie Luise Lehner, this film follows twelve-year-old Anna as she becomes aware of her unconventional family’s financial situation after starting high school. To survive among peers mostly from higher social backgrounds, Anna finds an ally in rebellious Marika, who lives with her queer father. The film presents a nuanced portrayal of identity, belonging, and resilience in the face of societal pressures. Thursday, July 16th, brings another highlight with the premiere of Miroirs No. 3 by German director Christian Petzold. Named after a composition by composer Maurice Ravel, this psychological drama follows Laura, a piano student played by Paula Beer, whose life changes dramatically after a traffic accident. She ends up in the care of a random witness named Betty, leading to an exploration of trust, vulnerability, and human connection. Petzold, known for his intricate narratives, delivers a compelling tale that challenges perceptions of reality and relationships. Friday, July 17th, features a journey along the Adriatic Sea with the film Nezahvalna bića, directed by Olmo Omerzu. The story centers around David, a father trying desperately to keep his recently fractured family together during a summer vacation. Unbeknownst to him, their holiday will soon turn into a nightmarish ordeal. This intriguing film about adolescence and the complexities of modern parenting was premiered at the International Film Festival in San Sebastián and produced in collaboration with Croatia (Kinorama). The film offers a stark contrast to the idyllic image of a family getaway, revealing deeper emotional struggles beneath the surface. The festival concludes on Saturday, July 18th, with the screening of El Poeta, a captivating story directed by Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto. The film follows Oscar, a poet who takes a teaching job at a high school where he discovers a talented student named Yurlady among disinterested students. This absurdist blend of satire and drama won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival last year and has continued to captivate audiences worldwide since its premiere. The film’s unique tone and heartfelt storytelling make it a fitting closing act for the festival. All screenings begin at 9:30 PM. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ulaznice.hr, with online sales closing two hours before each show. Alternatively, tickets can be bought on the day of the screening at the official ticket office of the Tuškanac Open-Air Theatre. For more information regarding ticket availability and screening schedules, attendees are encouraged to follow updates on the official website and social media pages of the Zagreb Film Festival and the Tuškanac Open-Air Theatre. Visitors are invited to join the Summer Days of the Zagreb Film Festival for an unforgettable cinematic experience amidst nature and community.