Sandra Wollner wins with "Everytime" in Sarajevo

Sandra Wollner’s film Everytime has won the main prize at this year’s Sarajevo Film Festival, taking home the “Heart of Sarajevo” award for best feature film. The Austrian director, known for her work on The Trouble with Being Born, accepted the honor during the festival’s closing ceremony at the National Theatre in Sarajevo yesterday evening. The film, which explores themes of grief and loss, was shot in warm tones and features cinematography by Gregory Oke. It blends reality with memories through video footage and recollection, creating a nuanced portrayal of emotional struggle. The Sarajevo Film Festival, established in 1995 during the Serbian siege of the city during the Bosnian War (1992–1995), has since evolved into one of the most prestigious film festivals in Southeast Europe. Originally conceived as a cultural initiative amid conflict, the festival now attracts filmmakers and audiences from around the world. The “Heart of Sarajevo” award is given in multiple categories, recognizing excellence across different genres and styles. This year’s edition saw a wide range of entries, reflecting the diversity and vitality of contemporary cinema. Everytime had already made waves earlier in the festival calendar, earning critical acclaim and recognition at other international events. Notably, the film secured the top prize in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival. This achievement highlights the growing international profile of Wollner’s work and underscores the increasing visibility of European independent filmmaking. The film’s success at both Cannes and Sarajevo suggests a strong narrative and artistic vision that resonates with global audiences. Wollner’s acceptance speech emphasized the importance of storytelling in times of personal and collective hardship. She spoke about how the film’s blend of past and present reflects the complex nature of memory and emotion. Her remarks were met with applause from the audience, many of whom had followed the film’s journey throughout the festival. The emotional depth of Everytime and its technical execution were widely praised by critics and fellow filmmakers, reinforcing its status as a standout entry in this year’s lineup. The Sarajevo Film Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for emerging and established directors alike. With its historical roots and ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse voices, the festival plays a crucial role in shaping the future of cinema in the region. This year’s edition, marked by Wollner’s triumph, reaffirms the festival’s reputation as a space where innovative and thought-provoking films find their audience. As the festival concludes, attention turns to the broader impact of such achievements on the careers of filmmakers and the continued evolution of cinematic storytelling.