The world of film festivals is a fascinating one, where the magic of cinema comes to life through the dedicated efforts of a passionate team. Today, we delve into the heart of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF), celebrating its 60th edition and 80th year, to meet the individuals behind the scenes who make it all happen.
The Power of Teamwork
Artistic Director Karel Och emphasizes the collaborative nature of both filmmaking and festival programming. "The beauty of teamwork is evident in the diverse perspectives and expertise that come together," he says. With a range of ages and backgrounds, the KVIFF team brings a unique dynamic to the selection process, ensuring a rich and varied program.
Global Reach, Local Focus
While KVIFF has a global outlook, it also values its international experience. The addition of Italian programmer Lorenzo Esposito has brought a fresh perspective, marking a first for the festival. "Having a foreign collaborator who is an integral part of the team is a significant step," Och notes. This international collaboration not only enriches the programming but also challenges the team to articulate their ideas in a new language, fostering a deeper understanding of film.
Meet the Program Team
Anna Kořínek: Program Coordinator
Anna's journey with KVIFF began in 2010, and her focus on German-speaking countries, the Middle East, and Iran has given her a unique perspective. She curates the Future Frames program, supporting young European directors. Anna highlights the special experience of giving a voice to silenced filmmakers, particularly from Iran, where independent voices face censorship.
Sandra Hezinová: Programmer
Sandra's path to KVIFF began with her studies and a student film festival. Her specialties include Scandinavian and Canadian cinema, and she has a strong interest in queer cinema. Sandra cherishes the moments of discovering new films and welcoming the filmmakers, making her work enriching and rewarding.
Vojtěch Kočárník: Programmer
Vojtěch's curiosity about film festivals was sparked by a student experience in Karlovy Vary. His specialties include Central and Eastern Europe, Africa, and documentaries. He recalls the impact of introducing a documentary with its Oscar-winning director, feeling a deep sense of responsibility and purpose in his work.
Petra Vočadlová: Programmer
Petra's KVIFF journey began during her university studies, and she has since become a programmer. Her focus is on the Benelux region and English-speaking countries, and she curates the genre section Afterhours. Petra values the festival's ability to spark important conversations and connect people across generations and borders.
Natalia Kozáková: Programmer
Natalia's collaboration with KVIFF began as a program assistant during her studies. She focuses on films from the post-Soviet bloc, animation, and genre films. Natalia cherishes the cinephile audience and the standing ovations in the Grand Hall, creating a heartwarming experience.
Lorenzo Esposito: Associate Programmer
Lorenzo's experience includes programming for Venice, Turin, Rome, Locarno, and the Berlinale. His specialties are Mediterranean countries, the Middle East, Portugal, Turkey, and Iran. He values the freedom in programming and the engaged audience at KVIFF.
A Festival of Discovery
As KVIFF celebrates its double anniversary, the program team continues to scour the globe for new and exciting films. While we await the surprises and discoveries of the 2026 selection, we gain a deeper appreciation for the dedicated individuals who make this festival a reality. Their passion, expertise, and collaborative spirit ensure that KVIFF remains a vibrant and essential event in the world of cinema.
Personally, I find it inspiring to see how these programmers bring their unique perspectives and specialties to the table, creating a rich tapestry of films for audiences to enjoy. It's a reminder that behind every successful festival, there's a dedicated team working tirelessly to bring the magic of cinema to life.
