festival

FILM

JUN 25-28

Film

JUN 25-28

festival

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About

Since 2021, the Ponta Lopud Film Festival has brought together emerging filmmakers and industry professionals on Lopud Island for talks, workshops, and screenings.

Since 2021, the Ponta Lopud Film Festival has brought together emerging filmmakers and industry professionals on Lopud Island for talks, workshops, and screenings.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Lopud Island, the festival brings together celebrated masters such as Pawel Pawlikowski, Frances McDormand, Joel Coen, Ruben Östlund, and Edward Norton with emerging directors, actors, and cinematographers who have shown exceptional promise.


Masterclasses and workshops provide the fellows with invaluable insights, feedback, and connections that can propel their careers and projects in film forward.

The festival also offers social and cultural experiences that go beyond the subject of film but continue the conversations. Expect gourmet culinary events, wine tastings, explorations of Lopud’s rich cultural heritage and lively parties.

These occasions not only contribute to an unforgettable experience but also create a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for building relationships.

Paweł Pawlikowski
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Joel Coen
Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Joel Coen
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
Paweł Pawlikowski
The Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival is a rare treat and a rare experience. Great talent, tremendous commitment, and an extraordinary energy brought to the island by two giants in jazz, Thana Alexa and Antonio Sánchez.
Edward Norton
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Edward Norton
I’ve been making films for 30 years and the large majority of what I’ve learned about the craft and art has come from talking to older filmmakers about the details of their experiences. We make films for audiences, yes. But we need each other to really learn the trade and I absolutely love the idea of a film festival for filmmakers.
Frances McDormand
Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
Frances McDormand
Joel and I valued our time talking with participants during the Ponta Lopud Film Festival. It was exciting and inspiring for both of us. Navigating this crazy world is challenging and it is good to know there are many of us in the same lifeboat. Vive le cinéma!
Rajko Grlić
Award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, Film Festival 2024
Rajko Grlić
The educational aspect of this event is paramount. In all the festivals I’ve attended, the educational content is what is produced, while everything else is merely displayed. What truly matters is producing something meaningful. If we can share our experiences and insights with young people, our future colleagues, then we have accomplished our goal.
Suzana Perić
Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
Suzana Perić
It is a great honour to be on Lopud with such a distinguished group of lecturers, especially with our Rajko Grlić, with whom I have collaborated and whose work I deeply admire, and with Nebojša, who, earlier this year brought Croatia its first Palme d'Or from Cannes, an extraordinary achievement.
Ruben Östlund
Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Ruben Östlund
For me filmmaking is social and that’s the biggest reason why I enjoy doing it. The intimate atmosphere of Ponta Lopud creates a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, talk about work and get inspiration.
Joel Coen
Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Joel Coen
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
Paweł Pawlikowski
The Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival is a rare treat and a rare experience. Great talent, tremendous commitment, and an extraordinary energy brought to the island by two giants in jazz, Thana Alexa and Antonio Sánchez.
Edward Norton
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Edward Norton
I’ve been making films for 30 years and the large majority of what I’ve learned about the craft and art has come from talking to older filmmakers about the details of their experiences. We make films for audiences, yes. But we need each other to really learn the trade and I absolutely love the idea of a film festival for filmmakers.
Frances McDormand
Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
Frances McDormand
Joel and I valued our time talking with participants during the Ponta Lopud Film Festival. It was exciting and inspiring for both of us. Navigating this crazy world is challenging and it is good to know there are many of us in the same lifeboat. Vive le cinéma!
Rajko Grlić
Award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, Film Festival 2024
Rajko Grlić
The educational aspect of this event is paramount. In all the festivals I’ve attended, the educational content is what is produced, while everything else is merely displayed. What truly matters is producing something meaningful. If we can share our experiences and insights with young people, our future colleagues, then we have accomplished our goal.
Suzana Perić
Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
Suzana Perić
It is a great honour to be on Lopud with such a distinguished group of lecturers, especially with our Rajko Grlić, with whom I have collaborated and whose work I deeply admire, and with Nebojša, who, earlier this year brought Croatia its first Palme d'Or from Cannes, an extraordinary achievement.
Ruben Östlund
Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Ruben Östlund
For me filmmaking is social and that’s the biggest reason why I enjoy doing it. The intimate atmosphere of Ponta Lopud creates a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, talk about work and get inspiration.
Joel Coen
Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Joel Coen
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
Paweł Pawlikowski
The Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival is a rare treat and a rare experience. Great talent, tremendous commitment, and an extraordinary energy brought to the island by two giants in jazz, Thana Alexa and Antonio Sánchez.
Edward Norton
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Edward Norton
I’ve been making films for 30 years and the large majority of what I’ve learned about the craft and art has come from talking to older filmmakers about the details of their experiences. We make films for audiences, yes. But we need each other to really learn the trade and I absolutely love the idea of a film festival for filmmakers.
Frances McDormand
Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
Frances McDormand
Joel and I valued our time talking with participants during the Ponta Lopud Film Festival. It was exciting and inspiring for both of us. Navigating this crazy world is challenging and it is good to know there are many of us in the same lifeboat. Vive le cinéma!
Rajko Grlić
Award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, Film Festival 2024
Rajko Grlić
The educational aspect of this event is paramount. In all the festivals I’ve attended, the educational content is what is produced, while everything else is merely displayed. What truly matters is producing something meaningful. If we can share our experiences and insights with young people, our future colleagues, then we have accomplished our goal.
Suzana Perić
Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
Suzana Perić
It is a great honour to be on Lopud with such a distinguished group of lecturers, especially with our Rajko Grlić, with whom I have collaborated and whose work I deeply admire, and with Nebojša, who, earlier this year brought Croatia its first Palme d'Or from Cannes, an extraordinary achievement.
Ruben Östlund
Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Ruben Östlund
For me filmmaking is social and that’s the biggest reason why I enjoy doing it. The intimate atmosphere of Ponta Lopud creates a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, talk about work and get inspiration.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Joel Coen
Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Joel Coen
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
Paweł Pawlikowski
The Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival is a rare treat and a rare experience. Great talent, tremendous commitment, and an extraordinary energy brought to the island by two giants in jazz, Thana Alexa and Antonio Sánchez.
Edward Norton
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Edward Norton
I’ve been making films for 30 years and the large majority of what I’ve learned about the craft and art has come from talking to older filmmakers about the details of their experiences. We make films for audiences, yes. But we need each other to really learn the trade and I absolutely love the idea of a film festival for filmmakers.
Frances McDormand
Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
Frances McDormand
Joel and I valued our time talking with participants during the Ponta Lopud Film Festival. It was exciting and inspiring for both of us. Navigating this crazy world is challenging and it is good to know there are many of us in the same lifeboat. Vive le cinéma!
Rajko Grlić
Award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, Film Festival 2024
Rajko Grlić
The educational aspect of this event is paramount. In all the festivals I’ve attended, the educational content is what is produced, while everything else is merely displayed. What truly matters is producing something meaningful. If we can share our experiences and insights with young people, our future colleagues, then we have accomplished our goal.
Suzana Perić
Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
Suzana Perić
It is a great honour to be on Lopud with such a distinguished group of lecturers, especially with our Rajko Grlić, with whom I have collaborated and whose work I deeply admire, and with Nebojša, who, earlier this year brought Croatia its first Palme d'Or from Cannes, an extraordinary achievement.
Ruben Östlund
Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Ruben Östlund
For me filmmaking is social and that’s the biggest reason why I enjoy doing it. The intimate atmosphere of Ponta Lopud creates a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, talk about work and get inspiration.
Joel Coen
Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Joel Coen
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
Paweł Pawlikowski
The Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival is a rare treat and a rare experience. Great talent, tremendous commitment, and an extraordinary energy brought to the island by two giants in jazz, Thana Alexa and Antonio Sánchez.
Edward Norton
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Edward Norton
I’ve been making films for 30 years and the large majority of what I’ve learned about the craft and art has come from talking to older filmmakers about the details of their experiences. We make films for audiences, yes. But we need each other to really learn the trade and I absolutely love the idea of a film festival for filmmakers.
Frances McDormand
Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
Frances McDormand
Joel and I valued our time talking with participants during the Ponta Lopud Film Festival. It was exciting and inspiring for both of us. Navigating this crazy world is challenging and it is good to know there are many of us in the same lifeboat. Vive le cinéma!
Rajko Grlić
Award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, Film Festival 2024
Rajko Grlić
The educational aspect of this event is paramount. In all the festivals I’ve attended, the educational content is what is produced, while everything else is merely displayed. What truly matters is producing something meaningful. If we can share our experiences and insights with young people, our future colleagues, then we have accomplished our goal.
Suzana Perić
Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
Suzana Perić
It is a great honour to be on Lopud with such a distinguished group of lecturers, especially with our Rajko Grlić, with whom I have collaborated and whose work I deeply admire, and with Nebojša, who, earlier this year brought Croatia its first Palme d'Or from Cannes, an extraordinary achievement.
Ruben Östlund
Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Ruben Östlund
For me filmmaking is social and that’s the biggest reason why I enjoy doing it. The intimate atmosphere of Ponta Lopud creates a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, talk about work and get inspiration.
Joel Coen
Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Joel Coen
It’s been very rewarding for me to be able to talk to younger filmmakers who are just starting out. It’s very interesting to know what their problems and their interests are. I’m several generations older than they are. I come from a different time in moviemaking, different world, really... It’s been interesting and rewarding. This place is gorgeous. It’s a true revelation. The people are great. This is a beautiful part of the world. I would definitely come back. That’s for sure.
Paweł Pawlikowski
Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
Paweł Pawlikowski
The Ponta Lopud Jazz Festival is a rare treat and a rare experience. Great talent, tremendous commitment, and an extraordinary energy brought to the island by two giants in jazz, Thana Alexa and Antonio Sánchez.
Edward Norton
Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Edward Norton
I’ve been making films for 30 years and the large majority of what I’ve learned about the craft and art has come from talking to older filmmakers about the details of their experiences. We make films for audiences, yes. But we need each other to really learn the trade and I absolutely love the idea of a film festival for filmmakers.
Frances McDormand
Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
Frances McDormand
Joel and I valued our time talking with participants during the Ponta Lopud Film Festival. It was exciting and inspiring for both of us. Navigating this crazy world is challenging and it is good to know there are many of us in the same lifeboat. Vive le cinéma!
Rajko Grlić
Award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, Film Festival 2024
Rajko Grlić
The educational aspect of this event is paramount. In all the festivals I’ve attended, the educational content is what is produced, while everything else is merely displayed. What truly matters is producing something meaningful. If we can share our experiences and insights with young people, our future colleagues, then we have accomplished our goal.
Suzana Perić
Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
Suzana Perić
It is a great honour to be on Lopud with such a distinguished group of lecturers, especially with our Rajko Grlić, with whom I have collaborated and whose work I deeply admire, and with Nebojša, who, earlier this year brought Croatia its first Palme d'Or from Cannes, an extraordinary achievement.
Ruben Östlund
Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
Ruben Östlund
For me filmmaking is social and that’s the biggest reason why I enjoy doing it. The intimate atmosphere of Ponta Lopud creates a great opportunity to meet colleagues and friends, talk about work and get inspiration.

FF2026

FF2025

FF2024

FF2023

FF2022

FF2021

FF 2026

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General

Film Festival 2026: Where Film, Music and Creative Dialogue Meet

JUN 25-28, 2025

Every June, Lopud becomes a meeting place for film, music, and creativity. Set within a unique Mediterranean setting, the festival brings together international filmmakers, artists, mentors, emerging talents, and audiences through screenings, conversations, masterclasses, the development of new film projects, and the presentation of regional authors.

The festival’s sixth edition, taking place from 25 to 28 June, also features a special programme dedicated to the relationship between film and music, particularly the legacy of Ennio Morricone. Through films, conversations, and a closing concert dedicated to his music, the festival continues to create a space for artistic dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration beneath the open skies of Lopud Island.

Gallery Image

Wednesday

24 Jun 2026

ENNIO (2021)

Rector’s Palace

  • 5:15 PM

Ennio is a documentary portrait of one of the most important and beloved film composers of the 20th century, Ennio Morricone. Through an extended conversation with Morricone, archive material, music and testimonies from numerous directors, musicians and collaborators, Giuseppe Tornatore explores the creative journey of the composer behind more than five hundred film scores. The film reveals both celebrated and lesser-known aspects of Morricone’s work, from his long-standing collaboration with Tornatore to the musical ideas that shaped the history of cinema. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by composer Alessandro De Rosa.

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Thursday

25 Jun 2026

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (2024)

Grand Hotel Park

  • 9:00 PM

Bob Marley: One Love celebrates the life and music of an icon who inspired generations through his message of love, peace and unity. The film follows Bob Marley through a story of overcoming adversity, personal and social turmoil, and the creation of music that changed the world. Kingsley Ben-Adir stars as Bob Marley, with Lashana Lynch as Rita Marley and James Norton as Chris Blackwell. Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, the film will be personally introduced by him to the Ponta Lopud audience.

Friday

26 Jun 2026

CLOSE (2022)

Rector's Palace

  • 9:00 PM

Close, winner of the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival, is a deeply moving story about friendship and responsibility. The film follows Léo and Rémi, two thirteen-year-old boys whose intense and inseparable friendship is suddenly disrupted. Struggling to understand what has happened, Léo approaches Sophie, Rémi’s mother. Lukas Dhont creates a tender and devastating film about growing up, intimacy, loss and the words that often remain unspoken. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by director Lukas Dhont.

CINEMA PARADISO (1988)

Grand Hotel Park

  • 11:00 PM

Cinema Paradiso, winner of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and the Cannes Jury Grand Prix, is one of cinema’s most beloved love letters to the art of film. It follows Salvatore, a successful director who, after hearing of the death of his old friend Alfredo, the projectionist from his childhood, is drawn back into memories of growing up in a small Sicilian town. Through the story of the young Totò, his friendship with Alfredo and the magic of the local cinema, Giuseppe Tornatore creates a tender, nostalgic and deeply moving tribute to film, memory and the people who shape our lives. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by Suzana Perić and Alessandro De Rosa.

SATURDAY

27 Jun 2026

KOKE / HONEY BUNNY (2026)

Grand Hotel Park

  • 9:00 PM

Koke, internationally titled Honey Bunny, is the debut feature by Igor Jelinović, set within the family and island context of the Croatian coast. The story centres on sisters Tonina and Tajana, whose relationship is fractured after Tonina secretly takes ownership of part of their family holiday home on Hvar, despite the sisters having planned to buy it together. One year later, an attempt at reconciliation during their mother’s birthday brings old tensions back to the surface. The film offers a sharp, witty and emotionally charged story about family, ownership, guilt and sisterly relationships. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by director Igor Jelinović and actress Snježana Sinovčić-Šiškov.

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homage

Cinema, Music and the Composer: Homage to Ennio Morricone

Gallery Image
Gallery Image

I spent my professional career in the film industry as a music editor, collaborating with composers who showed me how deeply music can shape a film’s identity and emotional world. Among them, Ennio Morricone holds a special place. From his experimental beginnings with the Gruppo di Improvvisazione Nuova Consonanza to unforgettable scores for films such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Once Upon a Time in America, and Cinema Paradiso, Morricone forever changed the way we experience film music. This programme is conceived as a tribute to his legacy and to music that gives film depth, emotion, and a lasting imprint. Twenty-five years ago, I had the honour of sharing with him the idea of creating a programme dedicated to film music, and this concert represents part of the fulfilment of that promise.

SUZANA PERIĆ, music editor and initiator of the Homage to Ennio Morricone program

Guests in the Homage to Ennio Morricone program

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Masterclasses

Masterclasses are exclusively available to Ponta Lopud Film Festival participants and fellows.

01

26.06.2026.

Directors Session: The pressure of the first and second feature film & the experiences of debut filmmakers

16:30 • Guest: Lukas Dhont • Moderator: Antoneta Alamat Kusijanović

02

27.06.2026.

Evening Conversation: Effort Collapse “Art, Identity and Meaning in the Age of AI”

19:00 • Programme creator: Leonⁿ MonoSerieⁿ • Moderator: Rina Grossel Bogdanović

03

28.06.2026.

Music Session: Presentation of music materials and project excerpts with comments and feedback by Suzana Perić

10:00

Music Masterclass

16:30 • Guest: Alessandro De Rosa • Moderator: Suzana Perić

ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION: Independent Film Today

17:45 • Participants: Fellows & Masters • Moderator: Mark Kermode

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Projects

Projects in development

As part of this year’s Ponta Lopud Film Festival, two regional film projects are also being developed, the Croatian project History of Illness and the Serbian project The Long Weekend. Through collaboration with mentors and film professionals, the creative teams continue developing their projects within Lopud’s creative environment.

Film Title

History of Illness

DIRECTOR

David Gašo

GENRE

Drama

DURATION

100 min

COUNTRY

Croatia

Synopsis

In the midst of hospital renovations, sensitive Jošt is spending his day trying to find out more about the tic of his left eye that, for some reason, won’t show itself in front of medical personnel.

Meanwhile, a surgeon is struggling to explain an intuitive feeling caused by a bad dream, while a hungry patient is waiting for his surgery that keeps getting postponed. On the same day, the main quality assurance nurse gets a birthday surprise, even though her birthday was two months ago, a determined pigeon is trying to get inside the hospital, and a thirsty patient keeps struggling to reach her glass of water.

By next morning, the leftovers of a strawberry cake will cause an allergic reaction, Jošt will wet his bed and two people will die.

Fellows

Film Title

The Long Weekend

DIRECTOR

Katarina Koljević

GENRE

Drama

DURATION

90 min

COUNTRY

Serbia

Synopsis

The "hotel for singles" serves as a collective protagonist, a microcosm of a Serbian society ground down by a deviant version of liberal capitalism. None of the tenants intended to end up here, but when a stranger arrives and commits suicide, their stagnant lives are irrevocably altered.

The hotel becomes an immersive, high-tension trap where misfortune binds the residents together. As Jasna, a caregiver, begins an amateur investigation into the woman’s death, the lives of the other tenants intersect: Marko, the hotel manager; Nikola, an undertaker in search of clients; and younger staff members Kristina and Andrej. They are joined by Dragan, a former legal officer, and Boris, a delivery driver.

While the younger group uses dark humour as a shield, the older residents remain anesthetized by memories of a better past. The presence of death forces each of them to question if they are truly living, proving that in a borderline situation, our only thin defence against the void is the people around us.

Fellows

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Masters & Guests of Honour

Meet our Masters & Guests of Honour

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fellows

View all FF2026 Fellows

'26

'25

'24

'23

'22

'21

FF 2026

[

01
]
General

Film Festival 2026: Where Film, Music and Creative Dialogue Meet

JUN 25-28, 2025

Every June, Lopud becomes a meeting place for film, music, and creativity. Set within a unique Mediterranean setting, the festival brings together international filmmakers, artists, mentors, emerging talents, and audiences through screenings, conversations, masterclasses, the development of new film projects, and the presentation of regional authors.

The festival’s sixth edition, taking place from 25 to 28 June, also features a special programme dedicated to the relationship between film and music, particularly the legacy of Ennio Morricone. Through films, conversations, and a closing concert dedicated to his music, the festival continues to create a space for artistic dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration beneath the open skies of Lopud Island.

Gallery Image

Wednesday

24 Jun 2026

ENNIO (2021)

Rector’s Palace

  • 5:15 PM

Ennio is a documentary portrait of one of the most important and beloved film composers of the 20th century, Ennio Morricone. Through an extended conversation with Morricone, archive material, music and testimonies from numerous directors, musicians and collaborators, Giuseppe Tornatore explores the creative journey of the composer behind more than five hundred film scores. The film reveals both celebrated and lesser-known aspects of Morricone’s work, from his long-standing collaboration with Tornatore to the musical ideas that shaped the history of cinema. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by composer Alessandro De Rosa.

Gallery Image

Thursday

25 Jun 2026

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (2024)

Grand Hotel Park

  • 9:00 PM

Bob Marley: One Love celebrates the life and music of an icon who inspired generations through his message of love, peace and unity. The film follows Bob Marley through a story of overcoming adversity, personal and social turmoil, and the creation of music that changed the world. Kingsley Ben-Adir stars as Bob Marley, with Lashana Lynch as Rita Marley and James Norton as Chris Blackwell. Directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, the film will be personally introduced by him to the Ponta Lopud audience.

Friday

26 Jun 2026

CLOSE (2022)

Rector's Palace

  • 9:00 PM

Close, winner of the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival, is a deeply moving story about friendship and responsibility. The film follows Léo and Rémi, two thirteen-year-old boys whose intense and inseparable friendship is suddenly disrupted. Struggling to understand what has happened, Léo approaches Sophie, Rémi’s mother. Lukas Dhont creates a tender and devastating film about growing up, intimacy, loss and the words that often remain unspoken. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by director Lukas Dhont.

CINEMA PARADISO (1988)

Grand Hotel Park

  • 11:00 PM

Cinema Paradiso, winner of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and the Cannes Jury Grand Prix, is one of cinema’s most beloved love letters to the art of film. It follows Salvatore, a successful director who, after hearing of the death of his old friend Alfredo, the projectionist from his childhood, is drawn back into memories of growing up in a small Sicilian town. Through the story of the young Totò, his friendship with Alfredo and the magic of the local cinema, Giuseppe Tornatore creates a tender, nostalgic and deeply moving tribute to film, memory and the people who shape our lives. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by Suzana Perić and Alessandro De Rosa.

SATURDAY

27 Jun 2026

KOKE / HONEY BUNNY (2026)

Grand Hotel Park

  • 9:00 PM

Koke, internationally titled Honey Bunny, is the debut feature by Igor Jelinović, set within the family and island context of the Croatian coast. The story centres on sisters Tonina and Tajana, whose relationship is fractured after Tonina secretly takes ownership of part of their family holiday home on Hvar, despite the sisters having planned to buy it together. One year later, an attempt at reconciliation during their mother’s birthday brings old tensions back to the surface. The film offers a sharp, witty and emotionally charged story about family, ownership, guilt and sisterly relationships. The film will be introduced to the Ponta Lopud audience by director Igor Jelinović and actress Snježana Sinovčić-Šiškov.

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homage

Cinema, Music and the Composer: Homage to Ennio Morricone

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I spent my professional career in the film industry as a music editor, collaborating with composers who showed me how deeply music can shape a film’s identity and emotional world. Among them, Ennio Morricone holds a special place. From his experimental beginnings with the Gruppo di Improvvisazione Nuova Consonanza to unforgettable scores for films such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Once Upon a Time in America, and Cinema Paradiso, Morricone forever changed the way we experience film music. This programme is conceived as a tribute to his legacy and to music that gives film depth, emotion, and a lasting imprint. Twenty-five years ago, I had the honour of sharing with him the idea of creating a programme dedicated to film music, and this concert represents part of the fulfilment of that promise.

SUZANA PERIĆ, music editor and initiator of the Homage to Ennio Morricone program

Guests in the Homage to Ennio Morricone program

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Masterclasses

Masterclasses are exclusively available to Ponta Lopud Film Festival participants and fellows.

01

26.06.2026.

Directors Session: The pressure of the first and second feature film & the experiences of debut filmmakers

16:30 • Guest: Lukas Dhont • Moderator: Antoneta Alamat Kusijanović

02

27.06.2026.

Evening Conversation: Effort Collapse “Art, Identity and Meaning in the Age of AI”

19:00 • Programme creator: Leonⁿ MonoSerieⁿ • Moderator: Rina Grossel Bogdanović

03

28.06.2026.

Music Session: Presentation of music materials and project excerpts with comments and feedback by Suzana Perić

10:00

Music Masterclass

16:30 • Guest: Alessandro De Rosa • Moderator: Suzana Perić

ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION: Independent Film Today

17:45 • Participants: Fellows & Masters • Moderator: Mark Kermode

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Projects

Projects in development

As part of this year’s Ponta Lopud Film Festival, two regional film projects are also being developed, the Croatian project History of Illness and the Serbian project The Long Weekend. Through collaboration with mentors and film professionals, the creative teams continue developing their projects within Lopud’s creative environment.

Film Title

History of Illness

DIRECTOR

David Gašo

GENRE

Drama

DURATION

100 min

COUNTRY

Croatia

Synopsis

In the midst of hospital renovations, sensitive Jošt is spending his day trying to find out more about the tic of his left eye that, for some reason, won’t show itself in front of medical personnel.

Meanwhile, a surgeon is struggling to explain an intuitive feeling caused by a bad dream, while a hungry patient is waiting for his surgery that keeps getting postponed. On the same day, the main quality assurance nurse gets a birthday surprise, even though her birthday was two months ago, a determined pigeon is trying to get inside the hospital, and a thirsty patient keeps struggling to reach her glass of water.

By next morning, the leftovers of a strawberry cake will cause an allergic reaction, Jošt will wet his bed and two people will die.

Fellows

Film Title

The Long Weekend

DIRECTOR

Katarina Koljević

GENRE

Drama

DURATION

90 min

COUNTRY

Serbia

Synopsis

The "hotel for singles" serves as a collective protagonist, a microcosm of a Serbian society ground down by a deviant version of liberal capitalism. None of the tenants intended to end up here, but when a stranger arrives and commits suicide, their stagnant lives are irrevocably altered.

The hotel becomes an immersive, high-tension trap where misfortune binds the residents together. As Jasna, a caregiver, begins an amateur investigation into the woman’s death, the lives of the other tenants intersect: Marko, the hotel manager; Nikola, an undertaker in search of clients; and younger staff members Kristina and Andrej. They are joined by Dragan, a former legal officer, and Boris, a delivery driver.

While the younger group uses dark humour as a shield, the older residents remain anesthetized by memories of a better past. The presence of death forces each of them to question if they are truly living, proving that in a borderline situation, our only thin defence against the void is the people around us.

Fellows

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Masters & Guests of Honour

Meet our Masters & Guests of Honour

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fellows

View all FF2026 Fellows

MOMENTS

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SPONSORS

Become a member of the Ponta Lopud Club to engage with an exclusive artistic community and contribute to the lasting legacy of the Ponta Lopud Festivals.

As a distinguished member, you will enjoy VIP access with priority seating at all festival events, exclusive invitations to private gatherings, and participation in curated off-program activities. Your support will be honoured in our journal, newsletter, and official website.

As a distinguished member, you will enjoy VIP access with priority seating at all festival events, exclusive invitations to private gatherings, and participation in curated off-program activities. Your support will be honoured in our journal, newsletter, and official website.

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news

Stay up to date

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get in touch

Never miss a moment

Be the first to hear about our news and events.

25-28 Jun

Film Festival 2026

27-29 Aug

Jazz Festival 2026

17-19 Sep

Book Bridge Festival 2026

Visit us

Organised by

Ponta Lopud Festival j.d.o.o.

Dubrovnik Partner d.o.o. & Udruga Aklapela

Sponsors

We want to thank all of our partners, sponsors and supporters who are here for us at all times! Thank you for making this experience unforgettable for all our guests, masters, participants and us.

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06
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get in touch

Never miss a moment

Be the first to hear about our news and events.

25-28 Jun

Film Festival 2026

27-29 Aug

Jazz Festival 2026

17-19 Sep

Book Bridge Festival 2026

Visit us

Organised by

Ponta Lopud Festival j.d.o.o.

Dubrovnik Partner d.o.o. & Udruga Aklapela

Sponsors

We want to thank all of our partners, sponsors and supporters who are here for us at all times! Thank you for making this experience unforgettable for all our guests, masters, participants and us.

[

06
]
get in touch

Never miss a moment

Be the first to hear about our news and events.

25-28 Jun

Film Festival 2026

27-29 Aug

Jazz Festival 2026

17-19 Sep

Book Bridge Festival 2026

Visit us

Organised by

Ponta Lopud Festival j.d.o.o.

Dubrovnik Partner d.o.o. & Udruga Aklapela

Sponsors

We want to thank all of our partners, sponsors and supporters who are here for us at all times! Thank you for making this experience unforgettable for all our guests, masters, participants and us.