The milestone 5th edition of the Ponta Lopud Film Festival was officially opened last night, once again transforming the island of Lopud into a vibrant hub of cinematic art, inspiration, and creative exchange. The Festival has brought together some of the most prominent voices in global and regional cinema, alongside emerging filmmakers and film lovers from across the world. Each day offers a signature blend of education, encounters, and unforgettable evenings under the stars.
The opening day featured outstanding masterclasses at the historic Rector’s Palace, bringing together participants and mentors from Croatia, the region, and beyond. The day began with an inspiring conversation between one of the leading voices in American independent cinema, Sean Baker, and renowned film critic Mark Kermode. Their dialogue explored themes of authenticity in storytelling, working with non-professional actors, and the making of the multi-award-winning Anora. This was followed by the panel discussion Does it Make Sense to Turn a Book into a Film? with directors Rajko Grlić and Nebojša Slijepčević, who shared perspectives on the challenges of literary adaptation. The day concluded with the workshop BFFL: Your Producer is Your Best Friend, led by producer Diana Elbaum, offering participants valuable insights into the complex and often crucial dynamic between directors and producers.
“It’s a truly special experience to spend quality time in conversation with fellow artists, emerging directors, and filmmakers from around the world, all gathered here to discuss cinema in this stunning setting. The island is simply magical – every direction you look offers breath-taking views. (…) I’m still processing the success of Anora – it’s something I never anticipated. Honestly, I’m deeply moved and still trying to take it all in,” said Baker of the island and the film’s global reception.
Samantha Quan, Sean Baker and Mark Kermode
“Ponta Lopud is a festival of dialogue – a place where experienced filmmakers share knowledge with those just entering the world of cinema,” noted Rajko Grlić.
Rajko Grlić and Nebojša Slijepčević
The evening began with a press conference followed by a welcome cocktail, where young filmmaker and Artistic Programme Director Luna Brusselaers Sršen addressed guests ahead of the Festival’s official opening: “I’m deeply grateful to each of this year’s masters for recognizing the potential of the festival and enriching it with their presence, as well as to all lecturers, participants, the production team, volunteers, and partners who together create this unique platform for culture and inspiration. Ponta Lopud is a place where culture genuinely lives among people, and I’m especially thankful to the festival’s founder, Tilda Grossel Bogdanović, and the entire festival team for the trust they’ve shown me and for the opportunity to be a part of this story.”
Diana Elbaum’s lecture
The highlight of the day was the screening of Anora (2024), winner of five Oscars and the Palme d’Or, which was personally introduced by director Sean Baker. The sold-out open-air screening under the starry sky in the garden of Hotel Grand brought together numerous guests and participants, and the evening continued in a warm and celebratory festival spirit.
Screening of Anora
The day before the official opening, the festival hosted its traditional pre-programme, including a professional lecture by director Danilo Šerbedžija on authors’ and related rights for filmmakers, and the symbolic planting of a palm tree in the Đorđić-Mayneri Park – an emblem of unity and the festival’s lasting bond with the island. This year, the tree was planted by all three festival masters: Sean Baker, Dragan Bjelogrlić, and Daniel Minahan.
“As the festival grows, so does our responsibility – to the island, the artists, and all our valued partners whose support gives us the strength and belief that we can achieve even more together. The greatest asset of this festival lies in its unity with the local community and the dedication of our creative team and volunteers from around the world, who create an atmosphere of warmth and joy that makes everyone feel like part of one big family,” said Tilda Grossel Bogdanović, founder of the Ponta Lopud Creative Platform.
Dragan Bjelogrlić
Festival Participants
During the Festival, a special boat transfer for attendees is organized by Argosy boat from Dubrovnik. Departure is from Lapadska Obala (in front of the Faculty of Economics) at 6:00 PM, with return from Lopud (in front of Hotel Lafodia) at midnight.
The creative platform Ponta Lopud encompasses three cultural programs in the summer of 2025, welcoming all lovers of art—particularly film, music, and literature. The Ponta Lopud Film Festival is the first of these three events, celebrating cinema from 26 to 28 June. The second event, the popular Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival, will attract music enthusiasts from 28 to 30 August, while the Ponta Lopud Book Bridge will turn the island into a literary haven from 18 to 20 September, rounding off the season of summer cultural events.
