Lordan Zafranović film to open 53rd FEST in Belgrade

The film ‘Zlatni rez 42 – Djeca Kozare’ (Golden Cut 42 – Children of Kozara), directed by Lordan Zafranović, is set to open the 53rd FEST International Film Festival in Belgrade on October 2. The film depicts the suffering of children and civilians during the 1942 Kozara offensive and their subsequent deportation to the Jasenovac concentration camp under the Independent State of Croatia (NDH).

Scheduled screenings and premieres are also planned for Banja Luka and throughout Serbia and Europe. In Banja Luka, the premiere will take place at the Borik Sports Hall on October 3. Officials have described the film as a vital cultural event for preserving the memory of the victims, including Serbs, Jews, Roma, and anti-fascists.

The production features a large regional cast and complex sets built in Serbia and Republika Srpska to ensure historical authenticity. However, the film has faced significant controversy and online hostility from revisionist groups, leading to reports that some Croatian cast members may not attend the Belgrade opening due to threats.