Behind the Scenes: Karlovy Vary International Film Festival's 60th Edition Programming Team
The Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, in anticipation of its milestone 60th edition and 80th year of operation, showcases the collective endeavor behind its prestigious film selection. Artistic director Karel Och emphasizes the indispensable nature of teamwork, describing the programming process as a synergy of diverse talents and perspectives. He values the rigorous discussions and shared intelligence among his team members, which span generations, ensuring a rich and varied cinematic program. The festival's commitment to global cinema is further enhanced by the inclusion of international voices, such as Italian associate programmer Lorenzo Esposito, marking a significant step in the festival's history. This collaborative approach underscores the passion and dedication required to bring compelling stories to the screen and foster meaningful dialogue within the film community.
Karel Och, the artistic director, articulates that the curation of a film festival’s lineup is far from a solo act. He proudly acknowledges the collective intelligence and emotional depth his team brings to the table, admitting that he would be remiss to claim individual credit for the selections. This blend of experience, ranging from Och's own 52 years to the youngest programmer who is not yet 30, fosters an environment where suggestions are rigorously debated and sometimes, a colleague’s perspective reshapes the final program for the better. The festival's upcoming 60th anniversary, coinciding with its 80th year, serves as a testament to this enduring collaborative spirit.
The Karlovy Vary team's global outlook is a defining characteristic of their programming strategy. The recent addition of Italian programmer Lorenzo Esposito signifies a progressive move, making him the first foreign-language speaking member of the core programming committee in the festival's long history. This integration has led to an interesting dynamic where the predominantly Czech team communicates in English, a practice Och believes sharpens their ability to articulate their views on films with greater precision and nuance. This linguistic adaptation fosters deeper understanding and richer discussions about cinematic works from around the world.
The article also introduces several key members of the programming team, each contributing their unique expertise and regional focus. Anna Kořínek, the Program Coordinator, joined KVIFF in 2010 and specializes in German-speaking countries, the Middle East, and Iran, actively promoting young European directors. Her most cherished moments involve empowering filmmakers from politically sensitive regions, allowing their voices to be heard. Sandra Hezinová, a programmer since 2018, focuses on Scandinavian, Canadian, Latin American, Spanish, and Portuguese cinema, alongside a strong interest in queer films. She treasures the discovery of new films and the interaction with their creators. Vojtěch Kočárník, another programmer, arrived at KVIFF through a serendipitous encounter after observing the festival’s human element. He concentrates on Central and Eastern European and African cinema, as well as documentaries, and values the opportunity to broaden awareness through film. Petra Vočadlová, who became a programmer in 2023 after starting in an administrative role in 2017, covers the Benelux region and English-speaking countries, and co-curates the Afterhours section. She loves the pre-festival anticipation and the global connections KVIFF facilitates. Natalia Kozáková, who transitioned from program assistant to programmer in 2024, specializes in films from the post-Soviet bloc, animation, and genre films, appreciating the strong cinephile audience.
The personal anecdotes shared by the programming team members highlight their profound connection to the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. From Anna Kořínek's moving account of an Iranian director witnessing his film on the big screen via video call, to Petra Vočadlová's enjoyment of the calm before the storm as the team gathers before the festival's official start, these stories paint a vivid picture of the passion and dedication that define KVIFF. The collective pride in giving a platform to diverse cinematic voices and fostering a vibrant community of film enthusiasts is evident. This deep-seated commitment ensures that the festival remains a beacon for artistic expression and cultural exchange, year after year.
