Niš caught between two film festivals after organizers split

The city of Niš, Serbia, finds itself at the center of a cinematic schism with two film festivals vying for attention this month. The division stems from a split among the founders of the original "Filmski Susreti" (Film Encounters) festival. One of these new events, officially opened Wednesday, is backed by the city authorities and has been billed as an "unprecedented spectacle."

Preparations for the city-backed festival have involved significant renovations to the Niš Fortress and the main city square, adorned with extensive lighting. International guests, including action star Jean-Claude Van Damme and television personality Jovana Jeremić, have been announced. However, a considerable number of Serbian actors have declared their intention to boycott this festival in favor of the second event, which is set to commence in four days.

This second festival is organized by the faction of actors who were part of the original "Filmski Susreti." Their decision highlights a deep rift within the local film community, with many actors expressing a preference for the festival that aligns with the legacy of the original event. The city's extensive modifications to the Niš Fortress, a protected cultural heritage site, have also drawn criticism.

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There is absolutely no right for anyone to drill or do something like this. If the law is respected and we adhere to the fact that this is a protected cultural asset, there is no talk of demolition, drilling, or changing.

Nenad Rokvić, president of the Association of Tourist Guides, condemned the alterations to the fortress, stating, "There is absolutely no right for anyone to drill or do something like this." He emphasized that the site is a protected cultural monument. Rokvić drew parallels between the city's actions and historical instances of elites separating themselves from the public, suggesting the elaborate red carpet route from the hotel aims to isolate attendees.

The financial backing for the city-sponsored festival remains unclear, adding another layer of controversy. Meanwhile, the original festival's legacy is being contested, with many actors aligning themselves with the group that claims to represent its true spirit, leaving Niš with a divided cinematic landscape.

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This is a purely political event. There is nothing here related to culture, concerning the people who should come and see something.