“Anul Nou care na fost”, directed, written and produced by Bogdan Mureșanu, received three awards at the Venice International Film Festival: the FIPRESCI Award – offered by the jury of the International Federation of Film Critics -, the Bisato d’Oro award and Premio Autrici under 40 Valentina Pedicini.
Part of the team of the film “The New Year That Wasn’t”
“Among the eligible films – debut feature films from the Orizzonti and Settimana Internazionale della Critica sections – we have chosen to award a film that stands out for its ambitious and outstanding direction. The six distinct stories, initially seemingly independent, gradually interconnect in a rare balance of narrative threads. The film culminates in a profound exploration of human behavior, influenced by the fear of political repression shared by many generations who have lived under an authoritarian regime. We appreciate this film for its thoughtful political vision, sophisticated and engaging storytelling, artistic tonal balance, and exceptional casting“, note the members of the FIPRESCI jury – Jean-Philippe Guerand (France), Martin Horyana (Czech Republic), Hanna Pilarczyk (Germany), Gaia Simionati (Italy), Alissa Simon (USA), Simone Soranna (Italy).
“We make films with the secret desire to be liked by the public, but also appreciated by those who write about cinema, in equal measure. Such an important award means more to me than an appreciation of the film. It is a sign of dialogue across borders. There is nothing above that. Thank you on behalf of our entire team“, said Bogdan Mureșanu.
The independent critics present at the 81st edition of the festival also appreciated the film “The New Year That Wasn’t”, which won the Bisato d’Oro 2024 award for Best Screenplay from their representatives. Among the titles awarded at previous editions are numerous important films, appreciated by international film critics, such as: “Balada triste de trompeta” (dir. Alex de la Iglesia), “The Nightingale” (dir. Jennifer Kent), “Babyteeth” (dir. Shannon Murphy), “Colectiv” (dir. Alexander Nanau), “Spre Nord” (dir. Mihai Mincan).
Boróka Biró, the cinematographer of the film “Anul Noul care na bost”, was awarded with the special mention for the picture Premio Autrici under 40 “Valentina Pedicini”, a distinction that recognizes the talent of an author under 40 years old.
“The New Year that Wasn’t” will premiere in Romania on September 24. The cast includes actors such as Adrian Văncică, Iulian Postelnicu, Emilia Dobrin, Mihai Călin, Nicoleta Hâncu, Andrei Miercure, Manuela Hărăbor, Ioana Flora, Ada Galeș, Victoria Raileanu, Elvira Deatcu, Marian Râlea, Vasile Muraru, Ion Sapdaru.
