Dream of Freedom: Baška residents' incredible story of island peace exchanged for homeland defense

On Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day, August 5, the documentary "San o slobodi" (Dream of Freedom) will be broadcast on the First Program of HRT at 8:15 PM. Directed by Branko Ištvančić, the film delves into the heart of Baška, a small island community on Krk, revealing how this place, known for the Baška Tablet, demonstrated extraordinary unity, responsibility, and devotion to its homeland during pivotal moments in recent history.

The film is not merely a story of a specific time but also explores what endures afterward: solidarity, social engagement, and values passed down through generations. It follows a community that channeled its connection into a lasting commitment to others, to their home, and to a future built in peace. The narrative returns to 1991, when approximately 150 residents of Krk, one-third of them from Baška, voluntarily left the island's peace to join the defense of the country as part of the 111th Krk Brigade.

Through intimate memories of the protagonists, some of whom went to the front lines at just sixteen years old, the film traces their wartime journey, their confrontation with the horrors of war, and their eventual return. However, the central message of "San o slobodi" focuses on the post-war period. It illustrates how the spirit of community, forged on the battlefield, did not disappear upon returning to peace. Instead, it transformed into a continuous dedication to others, their community, and the future.

Through humanitarian actions, social engagement, and the preservation of memories, the veterans of Baška demonstrate that their mission never ended. Their story offers a universal message about solidarity that transcends time and space. The project's creative team includes director Branko Ištvančić, screenwriter Iva Cikojević, cinematographer Dario Hacek, and editor Darko Bušnja. The production is by Bond Squad, produced by Željka Benčić, and the film was made with the support of the Ministry of Croatian Veterans and the Municipality of Baška.