An Estonian political sports drama and a Czech opera drama are two films duking it out for Best International Feature Film at the upcoming Oscars. Those films, Kalev and The Bohemian, cleverly delve into their nations’ distinct histories, sharing underdog stories unfolding in oppressive environments. These emotionally complex features are also showing at the European Union Film Festival (EUFF) in Ottawa over the next two weeks.
Poster for Estonian entry Kalev. Image provided by EUFF.
For nearly four decades, the EUFF has become known for showcasing the landscapes, talents, and visions arising from countries like Ukraine, Germany, and other European Union states. With the latest iteration of the festival, 27 contemporary films demonstrate a range of genres, including comedies, road movies, dramas, thrillers, and documentaries.
“The 38th edition of the EUFF brings an incredibly diverse range of films from the cinemas of contemporary Europe,” Tom McSorley, Executive Director of the Canadian Film Institute, said in an email to Apt613.
“The 2023 EUFF will showcase six debut feature films from talented young directors as well as Oscar-nominated films from more established filmmakers. We are also especially pleased that Greek director Maria Douza will be in Ottawa to attend the screening of her film, Listen.”
Listen is the first feature film from emerging filmmaker Douza. Standing in apparent contrast to its title, the movie follows a teen girl who is pushed out of the sanctuary of her deafness when she meets a local boy during turbulent times. This Greek drama also makes its North American premiere at EUFF.
Poster for Greek entry Listen. Image provided by EUFF.
“In addition to the 27 films from the European Union, the EUFF is proud to once again host a benefit screening for Ukraine, featuring the witty, moving road-movie/family dramedy Luxembourg, Luxembourg,” said McSorley.
Antonio Lukich’s film follows twin brothers on a journey to visit their terminally ill father, traveling across Europe from Ukraine to Luxembourg. With its unique form of storytelling, the movie manages to artfully balance both grit and humour.
For those who can’t make the festival, an online screening of select EUFF films will be available following the in-person event.
The European Film Festival runs until Nov. 26 at the Ottawa Art Gallery’s Alma Duncan Salon. Single tickets are $15 and can be purchased online. The virtual screening of EUFF films will take place from Dec. 1–17. Single tickets are $12 and are available here.
