The sensual coming-of-age story follows 16-year-old Lucija (Jara Sofija Ostan) during a choral retreat, exploring themes of identity and emotional awakening. Ostan received the Vesna for Best Lead Actress, while Mina Švajger and Saša Tabaković were recognized for their supporting roles. The film also earned the FIPRESCI Prize from the Society of Slovenian Film Publicists, commended for its “depiction of individual liberation from societal pressures.” Earlier this year, it received the same award at Berlinale and was selected as Slovenia’s Oscar submission for Best International Feature. Djukić, 39, has solidified her place among leading Slovenian filmmakers, having previously gained acclaim for her award-winning animated short Granny’s Sexual Life.
Other major winners include Petra Seliškar, who received Best Director for her docu-feature The Mountain Won’t Move (Gora se ne bo premaknila), which also won for Best Editing and a special mention from the Art Cinema Network of Slovenia. Stories from the Magic Garden (Zgodbe iz čarobnega vrta) took home the Vesna for Best Screenplay and Best Animated Film, while Icelandic actor Ólafur Darri Ólafsson was named Best Lead Actor for his role in Hidden People (Skriti ljudje) by Miha Hočevar. Kukla’s debut Fantasy earned recognition for special achievements, as well as awards for Best Original Music, Production Design, Costume Design, and Makeup.
The 28th Festival of Slovenian Film concluded on 26 October, celebrating a year of bold storytelling and artistic innovation in national cinema.
