Politics and Cinema Intersect at the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival
The influence of politics is inescapable these days, and the recent opening ceremony for the 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) in the Czech Republic was no exception. During the event, honorees Peter Sarsgaard and Vicky Krieps used their acceptance speeches to address critical issues surrounding the United States’ role on the global stage, as well as the politics of division and borders.
The glamorous black-tie affair celebrated the accomplishments of both actors, with Sarsgaard, known for his performances in The Batman and The Killing, and Krieps, recognized for her roles in Phantom Thread and Bergman Island, each receiving the prestigious KVIFF President’s Award.
Sarsgaard took the stage amidst a thunderous standing ovation, where he reflected on the collaborative nature of filmmaking. "Creating a film is a collective endeavor," he stated. "While I take pride in some of my work, any actor will tell you that great performances arise from a nurturing environment." He expressed concern over the fragmentation within the United States, saying, "As my country retreats from its global responsibilities, it becomes increasingly divided—by politics, gender, sexuality, and race, even within communities like the Jewish population amid the ongoing conflict."
He emphasized the importance of unity, stating, "When facing a common enemy, we cannot act alone. The true adversaries are those forces that aim to divide us, and we all know who they are. Collective action is the only path forward—both in art and in our quest for happiness." Sarsgaard concluded his heartfelt speech with a poignant quote from former Czech President Václav Havel, who was instrumental in the fall of communism: "One half of a room cannot remain forever warm while the other half is cold."
Krieps also highlighted the power of cinema to transcend boundaries. "When used correctly, films can cross borders and convey the most powerful messages," she shared, receiving her award amidst another enthusiastic ovation. "They don’t require a passport or information about where you come from or your financial status. I’ve never considered myself ‘cool,’ but movies provide a space for dreaming and hope." She urged everyone to protect the art of filmmaking, stating, "We must strive to preserve cinema so it can continue to spread messages of love, peace, and, most importantly, forgiveness."
This year’s KVIFF opening ceremony served as a reminder of the profound connection between art and social commentary, urging us all to come together in pursuit of positive change.
