Cinematography
Slovenian cinema
The history of Slovenian cinema dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. The first major achievement was the silent movie In the Kingdom of the Golden Horn (1931), which depicted nature and mountains. After the Second World War, the industry was strengthened and the first Slovenian sound film Na svoji zemlji (1948) was made, which thematised the partisan struggle. In the 1950s, the children's film Kekec (1951) was released to international acclaim.
In the 1960s and the 1970s, social realism cinema developed, and directors, such as Boštjan Hladnik and France Štiglic, made films of authorial and artistic significance. In the 1980s, films began to criticise the socialist system, with authors such as Karpo Godina and Želimir Žilnik standing out.
After independence in 1991, Slovenian film entered a new phase, exploring transition, national identity and contemporary social challenges. More recently, films such as Slovenka (Slovenian Girl) (2009) and Razredni sovražnik (Class Enemy) (2013) have achieved international success. Slovenian film today reflects social change and questions identity and attitudes towards the past.
Slovenia as a great filming location
Slovenia boasts a diverse landscape of mountains, lakes, forests, castles and historic towns, allowing films, commercials and music videos to be shot in unique natural and cultural environments. Its geographical location and its diversity, cultural and historical features and attractions make it ideal for filming in a variety of formats. Local production companies and experts are renowned collaborators on world-famous projects:
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian (2008), part of which was filmed in a magical landscape of the Soča River valley;
The Witcher is one of the most popular series of all time. Season 3 was filmed in Slovenia in 2022;
The Union, starring Halle Berry and Mark Wahlberg (2024);
Armour of God (1986), a film by Jackie Chan, who shot scenes at Ljubljana Castle and in other parts of Slovenia;
Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard (2021), starring Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson, included scenes shot in and around Piran;
The Chronicles of Riddick (2004), for which scenes were filmed in the Postojna Cave, which served as a fictional location.
Slovenia, a spectacular film destination
Film festivals in Slovenia
Slovenia hosts several important film festivals that support the development of the art of film and showcase national and international productions.
Liffe (Ljubljana International Film Festival) is the largest film event in Slovenia, held in Ljubljana. It showcases contemporary cinematography of authors from around the world and attracts many film lovers and professionals.
The FSF (Festival of Slovenian Film), which takes place in Portorož, is the main festival for Slovenian film production. It presents new Slovenian films and awards the best filmmakers.
Animateka is an international festival of animated film held in Ljubljana. It specialises in Central and Eastern European animation and promotes innovative techniques and new approaches in animation.
Dokudoc is a documentary film festival in Maribor dedicated to national and international documentaries that promote critical reflection on contemporary society.
The Grossmann Fantastic Film and Wine Festival in Ljutomer is one of the most unique festivals combining horror, fantasy and local wine traditions.
These festivals help to enrich film culture and connect Slovenian filmmakers with international filmmakers.
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