Sydney Czech & Slovak Film Festival – 12th Edition

The Sydney Czech & Slovak Film Festival is back for its 12th edition! 2–6 April 2025 at Dendy Newtown.

This year’s festival continues to showcase the best in Czech and Slovak cinema, offering audiences a unique selection of films that go beyond mainstream Hollywood productions. The 2025 lineup features a diverse mix of dramas, thrillers, romances, comedies, and documentaries, many making their Australian debut.

Festival highlights:

• Opening Night film: Waves/Vlny – Jiří Mádl’s powerful political thriller, inspired by true events from 1968 –the year of the Russian invasion of Czechoslovakia – plunges viewers into the high-stakes world of Czechoslovak Radio's international editorial office during a pivotal moment in the nation's history. This official Czech entry, shortlisted for the Oscars, has earned international acclaim, recently winning the Satellite Award for Best International Film, beating stiff competition that included several Oscar nominees.

• Special guest: Actress Vica Kerekes – A unique opportunity for audiences to engage in an exclusive Q&A session with the acclaimed actress, who stars in The Chambermaid/Slúžka, a moving period drama that unfolds a forbidden love story between two teenage girls from starkly contrasting social backgrounds. Based on true story.

• Family-friendly screening: The Proud Princess/Pyšná princezna – The Australian premiere of this animated cherished Czech fairy tale, a surprise international hit with vibrant visuals and timeless themes, promises fun for all ages.

• Saturday festival extravaganza (5 April) – A jam-packed day featuring the Slovak action thriller and box office hit Miki, inspired by the true story of notorious Slovak mob boss; additional screenings, a tea-tasting event, and more.

• Celebrating short films – A specially curated selection of quirky and thought-provoking short films and animations, a festival favourite that showcases the creativity and diversity of contemporary Czech and Slovak filmmakers.

• Closing Night film & prize draw (6 April) – The festival wraps up with a sharp comedy State of Emergency/Vyjímečný stav, about the fake news in today’s world. The film centres on a group of unlikely heroes caught up in a chaotic situation when a fabricated emergency goes viral, leading to panic and confusion. As the characters navigate the absurd consequences of misinformation, they must confront their own beliefs and biases while attempting to restore order. The main prize draw after the comedy closes the festival.

Opening Night – cocktail on arrival, Closing Night – glass of wine/beer on arrival. Q&A with actress Vica Kerekes on Sunday 6 April at 5:30pm.

All films have English subtitles.

For tickets and full program details, visit www.csfilmfest.sydney