The Herceg Novi Film Festival – Montenegro Film Festival, which marks a historic moment this year by being held under the official accreditation of the International Federation of Film Producers Associations, represents the best showcase of everything achieved in the cinematography sector, from reformed legislation and a competitive incentive system to a stable co-production framework and a stronger international positioning of Montenegro.
This was stated by the Minister of Culture and Media, Dr. Tamara Vujović, ahead of the 39th Herceg Novi Film Festival – Montenegro Film Festival.
“The Festival, as an event of special importance for the culture of Montenegro, continuously confirms the state’s commitment to investing in the quality, development, and international visibility of Montenegrin film art,” said Vujović.
According to her, it is one of the longest-running and most prestigious festivals in the country, which over nearly four decades has become an important meeting point for filmmakers and the audience.
“Although Montenegro today has a diverse and increasingly rich festival scene, the Herceg Novi Film Festival remains its central and most recognizable film event,” Vujović stated.
She noted that the Festival’s success is not isolated, but represents part of a broader and systemic development of the film sector, which the Ministry of Culture and Media has strongly supported in recent years.
“Through amendments to the Law on Cinematography, as well as the adoption of a decree specifying the criteria and procedure for exercising the right to a refund of part of the funds invested in the production of cinematographic works, the film incentive system has been improved, making Montenegro a more competitive destination for international productions,” Vujović reminded.
According to her, the establishment of a clearer and more predictable framework for co-productions has further strengthened cooperation between domestic and foreign producers, opening new opportunities for the inclusion of Montenegrin authors and professionals in European and world film projects.
“This is precisely why this year’s Festival has special significance. It represents the best showcase of the results we have jointly achieved and the ambitions we have for the future development of Montenegrin cinematography,” said Vujović.
A special segment of this year’s program, as she said, will be the third edition of the industry program “Montenegro Film Rendezvous,” which is realized in partnership with the Film Centre of Montenegro.
“Today, Montenegro can offer the film industry competitive financial incentives, a regulated legal and co-production framework, exceptional locations, professional film workers, and a festival recognized according to the highest international standards,” said Vujović.
She also reminded that Montenegrin documentaries and feature films, created with the support of the Film Centre of Montenegro, “are today winning awards at festivals around the world, confirming that domestic cinematography is building its recognizable artistic and professional reputation step by step.”
“The seven-day program of the Festival is of immeasurable importance for Herceg Novi, which every August becomes a regional center of film art,” said Vujović.
She assessed that such events demonstrate the relationship the state is building toward culture as an important developmental resource.
“Culture creates new artistic and social value, encourages creative industries, enriches the tourist offer, and contributes to the international reputation of the country,” Vujović was clear.
For this reason, the Ministry of Culture and Media has allocated €210,000 for the realization of the 39th edition of the Festival.
“This is not an investment in just one event. It is an investment in authors, film professionals, the audience, Herceg Novi, and a long-term vision for the development of Montenegrin cinematography,” Vujović said.
She expressed her conviction that by connecting reformed legislation, a competitive incentive system, a stable co-production framework, and a festival of international prestige, conditions will be created for the strong and sustainable growth of the film industry in Montenegro.
“Our country is no longer just a place where films are shown and film festivals are held. Montenegro is becoming a country where film is developed, produced, and created,” Vujović concluded.
The Herceg Novi Film Festival – Montenegro Film Festival will be held from August 22 to 28.
