Karlovy Vary Unveils KVIFF Promises Winners, Highlighting Ukraine’s ‘Reminiscence’ and Other Notable Projects

The 2026 Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) has announced its inaugural winners, recognizing outstanding projects in the works-in-progress market and industry section known as KVIFF Promises. The festival, which marks its 60th edition, is taking place from July 3 to July 11.

Hugo Rosák, head of the KVIFF Film Industry Office, emphasized the potential of Central Europe as a burgeoning hub for the audiovisual industry. He stated that the festival aims to enhance awareness among industry professionals regarding the films being produced in the region, the talent involved, and the myriad collaboration opportunities available.

This year, a total of 38 film and series projects were showcased, reflecting a diverse range of narratives and creative voices.

Eurimages Co-production Development Award

The jury awarded the Eurimages Co-production Development Award, a cash prize of 20,000 EUR (approximately $22,830), to Selamlik, a project from Sweden and Denmark. Directed by Jerry Carlsson, with a screenplay by Khaled Alesmael and produced by Frida Mårtensson, the film explores a love story rendered impossible by war, set against a backdrop of past and present conflicts.

The jury remarked that the project resonates with current geopolitical issues, particularly the plight of displaced individuals. They expressed hope that this award will position Selamlik at the center of the European co-production landscape, facilitating connections with dedicated collaborators.

Eurimages Special Co-production Development Award

An additional 20,000 EUR (approximately $22,830) was awarded as the Eurimages Special Co-production Development Award to Reminiscence, a Ukrainian project directed and written by Anastasia Tykha and produced by Darya Bassel. This award aims to support a promising project led by a female creative team.

The jury highlighted that Reminiscence addresses universal themes of loss, grief, and survival, reflecting the realities of contemporary life in Ukraine. They expressed confidence that this recognition will encourage European partners to engage with the project.

MIDPOINT & KVIFF Development Award

The MIDPOINT & KVIFF Development Award, which includes a cash prize of 10,000 EUR (approximately $11,415), was awarded to They Bloom at Dawn, a project from North Macedonia. Directed and written by Angela Dimeska and produced by Ognen Antov, the film delves into human and family relationships amid an environmental crisis.

The jury unanimously supported this project, noting its focus on community and the interconnectedness of personal courage and collective responsibility.

Connecting Cottbus Award

The Connecting Cottbus Award was presented to Reminiscence, recognizing its potential for East-West collaboration. Representatives Marjorie Bendeck and Katharina Stumm announced that the project will have the opportunity to pitch at Connecting Cottbus, the East-West co-production market during the Film Festival Cottbus.

The jury expressed their admiration for the film’s intimate exploration of grief, highlighting the emotional depth of its narrative.

Rotterdam Lab Award

Monika Matuszewska, producer of the Polish film Confirmation, was selected for the Rotterdam Lab Award. This award provides her with the opportunity to participate in the Rotterdam Lab professional training program for producers at the International Film Festival Rotterdam.

The representative from Rotterdam Lab noted that this program will enhance Matuszewska’s career by helping her navigate the complexities of the producing landscape, connecting her with peers who can offer guidance and support.

Marché du Film Producers Network Award

The Cannes Marché du Film Producers Network Award was awarded to Tomáš Hrubý, producer of Cowgirl (Czech Republic), and Eva Váchová, producer of A Few Branches Off (Czech Republic). Both projects were showcased on the KVIFF Central Stage. The winners will participate in the Marché du Film and Producers Network during the upcoming Cannes Film Festival.

As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.

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Published on 2026-07-08 00:40:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk