"Knock on Wood": 13th International Bašta Fest Kicks Off Amid Venue Challenges

The 13th international short film festival, Bašta Fest, has officially commenced in Bajina Bašta, Serbia, under the thematic slogan "Knock on Wood." This year's edition faced unexpected hurdles concerning its long-standing venue, Park Borići, a situation that required swift adaptation from the festival organizers.

Jovan Jelisavčić, an actor and the festival's founder, shared with N1 that despite the logistical issues with the park, an alternative location was secured, allowing the festival to proceed. He emphasized the collective resolve to maintain a festive atmosphere, ensuring the event's significance was honored despite the venue change.

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What is important and what all of us who spoke at the opening said is that it is important that this does not disrupt us, but that from that moment on the atmosphere is festive, as the festival deserves, and that is exactly how it was.

The opening ceremony featured a speech by emerging actor Ognjen Mićović. His address incorporated traditional Serbian customs, including "spilling water" and "knocking on wood," symbolic gestures intended to invoke good fortune for the future of culture and cinema, both nationally and within the broader industry. Further details about the festival's program and schedule are available on the Bašta Fest website.

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He had a beautiful speech and with a few folk beliefs we spilled water, knocked on wood, and moved from our places for better days in culture and cinema.