4.- 7. 9. 2025.
NOVIGRAD, ISTRA
NEWS 25/ 08/ 2025
Two panels, big stories
As part of the fourth edition of the Short Film Festival in Novigrad, taking place from September 5 to 7, 2025, the audience will be treated to two highly engaging panels in the podcast format titled Short Meter, Big Stories.
The panels will be held on Saturday, September 6, starting at 12:00 at the Center for Manifestations and Culture – CMIK Novigrad. The first panel will feature Croatian film director, screenwriter, and producer Rajko Grlić, alongside journalist, film curator, and activist Milena Zajović. This relaxed and informal conversation will bring forward anecdotes and insights from Rajko’s prolific career, as well as reflections from both guests on the contemporary relationship between film and the media. Discussion topics will include the role of media in shaping film visibility, the boundaries of censorship and self-censorship, the inclusiveness of film festivals, and how the profession has evolved over time. The audience will also hear personal stories about the beginnings of their careers and advice for younger generations entering the film and media industries.
In the photo: Rajko Grlic
Source: Sandro Lendler
In the photo: Milena Zajović
Source: Sasa Miljevic/PIXSELL
Later the same day, at 2:00 PM in the same venue, the panel titled “AI in the Creative Industry – Assistant or Threat?” will take place. Speakers will include Bartol Freškura, co-founder and CEO of TensorPix, and multimedia artist and director Filip Filković. The focus of the discussion will be on one of today’s most pressing topics: artificial intelligence technology. Questions to be addressed include: can AI be considered an author? What happens to creativity when the tool starts “thinking” instead of the human? How should we navigate legal and ethical challenges (copyright, deepfake, manipulation)? Is AI a threat or a tool for the future of artistic creation?
In the photo: Bartol Freškura
Source: Saša Zinaja/NFOTO
In the photo: Filip Filković
Source: Vedran Peteh/CROPIX
Both panels will be recorded for the festival’s podcast, but organizers encourage the audience to join live and become part of creating this unique content.
As the organizers emphasize, the goal of this format is to provide a space for dialogue and the exchange of experiences, while also opening important discussions that transcend the boundaries of film – from personal and professional stories to global challenges facing the creative industries.
The program is co-financed by: Grad Novigrad-City of Novigrad, Novigrad Tourist Board, Istria County - Administrative Department for Culture and Education of the Istria County, Croatian Audiovisual Center-HAVC (Ministarstvo kulture i Medija RH), Aminess Hotels&Resorts.
With the support of: CMIK / CMC Novigrad-Cittanova, Vina Fakin - fakin good wines, Červar EVOO Novigrad, 9 Pub-Devetka, Krevatin Tourist Agency, Italian Community of the City of Novigrad, Autocenter Poreč, TORCI 18 residence Novigrad, Hotel Makin Novigrad, Hotel Villa Cittar, Apartman Samanta, Mainenti d.o.o., Rezolucija d.o.o., Montaro shop, ARGENTUM SPORT d.o.o., BLOK 1:1 d.o.o., LUK Arhitekti d.o.o., Rezolucija d.o.o.
NEWS 01/09/2024
Novigrad Short Film Festival to Feature Parade of Halubaj Bell Ringers
Novigrad, September 7, 2024 – Novigrad Short Film Festival is set to come alive with cultural vibrancy this Saturday, as a colorful parade of the Halubje’s bell ringers takes center stage. Scheduled to commence at 6:30 p.m., this festive event marks the screening of the anticipated short animated film "Halubje’s bell ringers”, directed by Miroslav Brozović, which delves into the rich history and enduring tradition of these unique bell ringers.
The parade promises to be a delightful spectacle, featuring the youngest members of the Halubje’s bell ringers association, aged 4 to 15, who will be accompanied by five adult bell ringers and enthusiastic festival volunteers. This intergenerational display of talent will showcase the association's commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. Starting from the Center for Manifestations and Culture CMIK-CMC Novigrad-Cittanova, the procession will meander through the heart of the city, traversing the City square, Mandrač Street, and culminating at the festival’s center along Rivarela Street. Along the route, attendees can look forward to the distinctive sound of the bell ringers, who will perform at various points, adding a melodic touch to the festive atmosphere.
Festival director Gianna Buršić expressed her gratitude to the president of the Halubje’s bell ringers association for their exceptional collaboration. "We're delighted to bring this extraordinary tradition to our small fishing town of Novigrad, enriching our festival experience with local culture," she stated. As the sun sets over Novigrad, the parade is expected to draw both locals and visitors alike, celebrating the unique customs that bind communities together while fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling through film. Be sure to join in the festivities and witness the enchanting blend of tradition and creativity that the Novigrad Short Film Festival has to offer.
Poster from "Halubjes bell ringers", dir. Miroslav Brozović
More about in Domagoj Sever's article: https://www.domagojsever.com/2022/03/04/halubajski-zvoncari/
Source photography: Domagoj Sever
NEWS 01/08/2024
Novigrad Short Film Festival Set to Shine with Dynamic Duo of Moderators!
Excitement is mounting for this year's Novigrad Short Film Festival as organizers unveil the talents of two of the region's most captivating entertainers as the festival's moderators: Ula Furlan and Marina Žužić.
From September 6-8, festival attendees can expect an exhilarating experience as Furlan, famed Slovenian TV presenter, multifaceted theater and film actress, model, and rising social influencer, shares the stage with the dazzling Marina Žužić, known for her mesmerizing performances in both theater and music. With their combined prowess in the arts, this duo is set to create a vibrant atmosphere, enhancing the festival's celebration of creative storytelling through film.
Ula Furlan has garnered a robust following not only for her career on television but also for her magnetic presence on social media, where she connects with fans and shares her passions. Ula’s engaging style and sharp wit are sure to keep the audience entertained as she guides them through the festival's prestigious lineup.
In the meantime, Marina Žužić, the Istrian actress with a Zagreb address known by her musical stage name "Marei"—you must have noticed in the acclaimed Cabaret production "Esprit de Paris by Miro Ungar". Combining different types of performing arts, through her experiences in dance, theater and music, Marina adds the perfect pop of brilliance essential to the stage.
"Along with education and socializing, our main goal is to show the best of the short film, while providing an unforgettable experience to our audience," said festival director Gianna Buršić "Ula and Marina are not only successful in their fields, but both have a vibrating energy that fits perfectly into the atmosphere of our festival. Together, they will create a bridge between the audience and the authors, enriching the discussions around the films in this year's selection.".
Source: Ivor Lapić
With 25 films from all over the world vying for top honors in a variety of categories, attendees are promised a curated experience filled with creativity and artistry.
Alongside moderated panels, film screenings, and workshops, Ula and Marina are set to add layers of charm and excitement as they navigate the vibrant world of cinema. As the start date approaches, the thrill and anticipation surrounding the Novigrad Short Film Festival only grows stronger. Don’t miss the chance to witness Ula Furlan and Marina Žužić light up the main stage from September 6-8 in the beautiful town of Novigrad. This enchanting weekend is sure to celebrate the magic of storytelling through film—a summer highlight you won't want to miss!
Source: Sebastijan Skoko for FKM 2023
Source: Galeria piksi.work / Črt Piksi