The award was presented to her at the Coca-Cola Open Air Cinema, a fitting tribute to her enduring impact on the industry.
In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Ryan praised the resilience and spirit of Sarajevo, saying, “Thank you for your hearts. Thank you for your example. That’s Sarajevo. It has more guts than the rest. Now, anyone anywhere suffering from any kind of violence or oppression, feeling alone, can look to this place and to you as an example. You are proof that diversity is strength and that art is anything that makes you feel less alone, connecting us without barriers. No separation. Art, not war.”
Ryan went on to share the story of how she first ventured into acting, revealing that she initially studied journalism. “I was actually a journalism student, and of course, I needed to pay for my expenses during college, and that’s how I somehow started my acting life. I’m really an actress without formal acting education, learning slowly along the way,” she said, emphasizing that acting is a craft that one continues to learn throughout their life.
Ryan’s words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting her humility and her belief in the power of art to unite and inspire across divides. Her presence at the festival and the award she received serve as a testament to her lasting influence in cinema and her unwavering commitment to using her platform for positive change.
