Czech Embassy’s official entry for this year’s Cine Europa was the critically acclaimed film “Vratné Lahve” (Empties). Empties received the Audience Award at 2007 Ljubljana International Film Festival. Lead actor Zdeněk Svěrák received a Special Jury Mention for the screenplay at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival 2007. The film’s director Jan Svěrák together with his father Zdeněk Svěrák had other film collaborations. Critically acclaimed film Kolya (originally Kolja) is Jan’s first collaboration with Eric Abraham. The film was scripted by his father Zdeněk Svěrák, who also stars in this film. The film received recognition all over the world including the prestigious Academy Awards (Oscar) from the Academy of Motion Pictures, Arts and Sciences for the Best Film Spoken in a Foreign Language and Golden Globe Award for the Best Foreign Picture. Jan’s other films are Dark Blue World and his latest movie Kooky.

Cine Europa’s first leg was held in Manila (September 9 to 19, 2010). Movie enthusiasts from Metro Manila were overwhelmed with the variety of films offered to them. It was then followed by the screening of the films in Cebu for the second leg. Cebuanos had the glimpse of the European culture through films from September 22, 2010 to September 24, 2010. The third leg took place in Liceo de Cagayan located in Cagayan de Oro from September 30, 2010 to October 3, 2010.

The success of this year’s Cine Europa only shows how well the Filipino audience appreciates European films. The Embassy of the Czech Republic together with our partners will continue to provide great films to satisfy the movie-goers’ artistic palate. Cine Europa has served as a remarkable tool to get to know the European culture. As long as we continuously receive support and appreciation for this project, we’ll make sure to feature better and more films.

We hope to see all again next year!