Rendez-vous with European Cinema / Hungary - Exclusive screening of “Semmelweis" in Brussels, 10 December 2024
In the framework of the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council, EFAD and the National Film Institute of Hungary (NFI) proposed the exclusive screening in Brussels of the Hungarian feature film Semmelweis directed by Lajos Koltai, on Tuesday 10 December, at Cinema Palace in Brussels.
The film is Hungary’s official entry for the Academy Award for Best International Feature. The event served as a celebration of the vibrant and diverse landscape of European film.
The event was organized in collaboration with the European Coalitions for Cultural Diversity (ECCD) with the support of other prominent European associations in the cultural and audiovisual sectors, such as the European Audiovisual Production association (CEPI), Cineuropa, European Producers Club (EPC), Europa Cinemas, Europa Distribution, Europa International, European Film Academy, Federation of European Screen Directors (FERA) and Society of Audiovisual Authors (SAA).
In her welcome speech, Carole Tongue, Chair of the European Coalitions for Cultural Diversity highlighted that “Semmelweis is not just a historical drama; it is a call to reflect on our own era, where the principles of scientific inquiry, respect for truth, and shared humanity are under strain, especially in the European Parliament where there has been a shift to a polarized situation where we see the rise of ideologies that deny facts. Semmelweis challenges us to remember that human dignity and progress are inseparable, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that light continues to shine through the darkness we see in some parts of Europe.”
About the film
Semmelweis, directed by Lajos Koltai and written by Balázs Maruszki, is a historical biopic about a Hungarian doctor who revolutionized antiseptic methods, earning him the title of the "saviour of mothers". Through his discoveries, he radically transformed medical practices and saved countless lives, despite the initial resistance he faced.
Pictures © Erlend Štaub & Flyer invitation designed by Ana Balderramas