Film Festival

Established in 2021, the Ponta Lopud Film Festival is a unique gathering dedicated to nurturing creativity and supporting the next generation of filmmaking talent. 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.

Exploring the Art of Film

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.

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.

Joel Coen - Four time Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2022
Paweł Pawlikowski
It was wonderful at Ponta Lopud. I will recommend to all my friends from the film world that they come here if they receive an invitation. This is a beautiful, creative, and fun adventure. I’m delighted that I came here.

Paweł Pawlikowski - Oscar Winning Director, Film Festival 2021
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.

Edward Norton - Golden Globe recipient, multiple Film Critics Awards winner, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
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!

Frances McDormand - Four time Oscar Winning Actress, Film Festival 2022
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.

Rajko Grlić - award-winning Croatian director and screenwriter, 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.

Suzana Perić - Acclaimed Croatian-American music editor, Film Festival 2024
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.

Ruben Östlund - Recipient of Palmes d'Or, European Film Awards, and Oscar nominee, Film Festival 2023
2021 FILM FESTIVAL
2022 FILM FESTIVAL
2023 FILM FESTIVAL
2024 FILM FESTIVAL