From Tuesday, May 7 to Sunday, May 12, 2024, Liberec will transform into a vibrant epicenter of creativity as it hosts the 23rd International Festival of Animated Films – Anifilm. This prestigious event, ranked among Central Europe’s most significant animation showcases, will present the finest domestic and international animated works from the past year.
Dual Themes: Traditional Puppetry Meets Artistic Experimentation
This year’s edition invites visitors to explore two groundbreaking themes in contemporary animation: the captivating world of string puppetry and the intersection of fine arts with animated film. These concepts are visually embodied in the festival’s official trailer, whose creation receives exceptional attention annually.
“This year’s trailer serves as a visual metaphor for the creative process,” explains Artistic Director Pavel Horáček. “Viewers witness ordinary objects – twigs, strings, and fabric scraps – transforming into art through stop-motion combined with shadow puppetry, perfectly capturing this edition’s spirit.”
Fine-Art-Animation: When Paintings Come to Life
The special Fine-Art-Animation section will showcase remarkable films inspired by specific artworks or entire artistic movements. Audiences can expect animated reinterpretations of famous paintings, collage experiments, and innovative transfers of painterly techniques to moving images.
“This program demonstrates animation’s capacity as a serious artistic medium beyond children’s entertainment,” Horáček notes. “We’ve curated true masterpieces that will delight both art connoisseurs and experimental film enthusiasts.”
Gaming Zone & Developer Opportunities
Beyond film screenings, the extensive gaming zone offers new attractions. The headline innovation is the Game Pitch Arena, providing indie developers a unique platform to present projects to judges representing major publishing houses.
“The winning team receives €10,000 from PPF Foundation plus invaluable industry connections,” emphasizes Festival Director Tomáš Rychecký. “We’re excited to discover fresh talent and original game concepts through this initiative.”
Expanded Venues & Rich Parallel Program
The 2024 edition significantly expands festival infrastructure. In addition to the traditional chateau venue, organizers will utilize a new exhibition hall with 200-seat capacity, enabling larger screenings and events.
“Our expanded footprint allows for more ambitious programming,” says Rychecký. “Beyond 13 regular venues, we’re activating unconventional spaces across the city, immersing visitors in festival energy at every turn.”
The parallel program features animation art exhibitions, professional workshops, animation-inspired concerts, and filmmaker Q&As. Special attention goes to educational activities for schools and families.
For Cinephiles & Casual Viewers Alike
Anifilm 2024 promises to engage both industry professionals and general audiences. Through its carefully curated blend of artistic films and accessible entertainment, the festival celebrates animation in all its forms – as art, entertainment, and technological innovation.
Tickets and detailed schedules are available on the official festival website. Industry professionals can access all screenings and events through the accreditation system.