Dear Guests, Dear Filmmakers, Dear Audience!
Thirty-six years represents a significant span of time in the life of an art-house cinema, while thirty-three years in the history of a film festival constitutes a true tradition.
If we were to capture all of this on film, the end credits would be long indeed. They would feature generations of filmmakers, viewers, colleagues, friends, and partners—all those thanks to whom the story of the Tisza Cinema and ATAFF can continue with new scenes year after year. Much has changed around us, yet the protagonist has remained the same: a love for film and culture. We hold fast to this even as we seek new paths, build new connections, or simply rearrange the set around us.
Today, Tisza Mozi is far more than just a cinema in Szolnok. It is part of the international film community, active within the European art-house circuit, and a member of the European Film Academy; furthermore, this year marked the start of a significant new international collaboration involving the Production Designers Collective.
Speaking of set design: at this year’s ATAFF, we are also curious about what happens on the other side of the camera before the world we see on screen comes to life. Our guests will include Judit Varga, production designer for Easy Living and Rise of the Raven; Didier Naert, who carries on the legacy of Alexandre Trauner; and Oscar winner Wynn Thomas. Through masterclasses, exhibitions, and professional discussions, they will offer a glimpse into the creation of a film’s visual world.
This year, we are also taking a closer look at another kind of screen. At a joint conference hosted by the NMHH and Tisza Mozi, we will discuss the media habits of Generation Alpha—exploring how the audiences—and creators—of the future are growing up in a world of screens and stories.
However, the ATAFF screen is never reserved solely for films. Once again, the program brings together film, music, fine arts, science and professional dialogue. We invite creators, industry professionals, and audiences to the capital of the Tisza region, hoping that—alongside the films—they will take home new connections, fresh ideas and a taste of Szolnok itself. This spirit extends beyond the festival. Throughout the year, the Tisza Cinema hosts community and cultural initiatives such as the film club “Film Therapy”, which engages young people and the “Cinema Without Barriers” program, which ensures accessible movie-going experiences.
We look forward to welcoming you again this year to ATAFF, set against the familiar backdrop of the Tisza Cinema. I hope this year’s festival brings you many great films, unexpected encounters and moments that stay with us long after the credits roll. Thank you for joining us again this year. I wish you a wonderful festival, great encounters and—above all—a fantastic movie-oing experience!
Éva Demeter
festival director