Dear film fans and enthusiasts,

The 58th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival is upon us, and that means just one thing: our region and our regional capital will once again welcome star actors as well as fans of the big screen and of Czech and world cinema, and our streets will again come to life with festival revelry. I personally cannot wait, and I am sure that the selection of films that the organizers have prepared for us this year will leave us with little time to even catch our breath over the course of the festival.

The film festival is more than just full cinemas throughout town. Every year, many other events are held as part of the accompanying program, including exhibitions, concerts by well-known artists, and much more. This year, make sure not to miss the unique interiors of the Karlovy Vary Museum right by the Mill Colonnade. This venue will become an oasis of meetings, interactive workshops for children and adults, discussion, and debate – all organized by the Karlovy Vary Region. Visitors can choose from thematic evenings, slam poetry, live recordings of podcasts, expert discussions, and exhibitions of traditional crafts, design, and manufacturing. Believe me when I say you don’t want to miss it. We’ll be looking forward to seeing you all there.

I am proud that the Karlovy Vary Region is a longtime partner of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, which draws visitors not just from all corners of the Czech Republic but from abroad as well. May each and every one of you enjoy our festival and find time to take trips outside town, for our region definitely has much to offer.

As a great fan of cinema and one of the founders of the Karlovy Vary Film Club, it is my bold wish that all of the festival’s cinemas will be filled to the last seat and that you will enjoy the films you set out to see. I look forward to meeting you at one of our local cinemas. Enjoy your visit to the Karlovy Vary Region, and if you don’t find the time to explore its full beauty, make sure to visit us again.

Petr Kulhánek
Governor of the Karlovy Vary Regio