Serbia

Oscar-winning short film “Istina” screened in Belgrade

The short film “Istina” (Truth), the production of which was financially supported by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, was screened for the first time in Serbia. The fictional movie is about a photojournalist from Belgrade who is threatened by right-wing extremist thugs and flees to Germany with her daughter. “Istina” won a bronze medal at the 50th Student Academy Awards/Student Oscars® on 26th October.

Only two weeks after the award ceremony in Hollywood, FNF Western Balkans managed to bring director Tamara Denić and creative producer Christian Siée to Belgrade for a special screening of their short film in front of journalists, representatives of civil society and NGOs. About half of the film is set in the Serbian capital. The story of the film is a reality for many media professionals in Belgrade and beyond.

Journalists confirm authenticity

Idro Seferi, a Kosovo-born freelance journalist and correspondent in Belgrade, shared his impressions with Freiheit.org:

“Istina vividly captures the rare and challenging life of a journalist – a narrative to which many in the profession worldwide can undoubtedly relate. The story delves straight into the heart of the matter, presenting, for me as a journalist, a deeply personal account. The film encapsulates the ongoing struggle and dilemmas faced by many of us in our quest to exist and survive in this demanding profession. The portrayal of the hardships, misunderstandings, and challenges that often push us to the brink resonates with precision.

In contrast to many movies that misrepresent journalists, "Istina" accurately depicts a facet of our lives that often goes unnoticed. Journalism, as a tool to scrutinize societies, remains an enduring and vital profession. The stories we tell are seldom about ourselves, as we willingly dedicate ourselves to the narratives we pursue. Unfortunately, we increasingly find ourselves becoming the story, a narrative that often goes unnoticed or unappreciated.

This film holds universal value, transcending geographical boundaries, as it portrays the lives of those striving to uphold real journalism. It sheds a light on the personal stories of journalists globally, revealing the suffering we endure – and the struggle that affects not only ourselves but also those in our immediate circle, including our families and loved ones. It is a battle that may seem insignificant, yet watching this movie, I felt a sense of solidarity and relief. It was heartening to see someone finally acknowledge and articulate the challenges we face in our profession.”