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    FACE officially launches the “Best of Europe” film initiative at Odesa International Film Festival

    The Federation of Film Academies Europe (FACE), which brings together 21 academies, announces the launch of the “Best of Europe”, a joint initiative aimed at celebrating the excellence and diversity of European cinema while promoting the exchange of visions and talents through a collective project.This initiative enhances the visibility of films honored at national or regional ceremonies, allowing them to reach a wider and more lasting audience.

    Best of Europe will take various forms: a dedicated VOD platform, inclusion in international catalogs, as well as special screenings at major festivals.

    A Prestigious “Best of Europe” Line-Up in Kyiv

    The initiative’s first official presentation will take place in partnership with the Ukrainian Film Academy, as part of the Odesa International Film Festival, held in Kyiv from September 24 to October 4, 2025. Five European films, selected in consultation with the Ukrainian Academy, will be screened under this banner, illustrating the richness and diversity of European talent.

    • Grand Tour by Miguel Gomes – Best Film at the Sophia Awards (Portugal)
    • El 47 by Marcel Barrena – Best Film at the Gaudí Awards (Catalonia) and the Goya Awards (Spain)
    • The Village Next to Paradise by Mo Harawe – Best Film at the Austrian Film Awards
    • Matters of the Heart by Christina Rosendahl – Best Film at the Robert Awards (Denmark)
    • Vlny (Waves) by Jiří Mádl – Best Film at the Czech Lion Awards and the Sun in a Net Awards (Slovakia)

    “In these challenging times, the support and solidarity of our European colleagues mean more than words can express. Hosting the first edition of ‘Best of Europe’ in Kyiv is not only a celebration of cinematic excellence but also a powerful gesture of unity and resilience. We are honored to welcome these outstanding films to Ukraine and to engage in the cultural dialogue that FACE represents.” Anna Machukh, Co-founder and Executive Director of the Ukrainian Film Academy, General Director of the Odesa International Film Festival

    The Best of Europe initiative is both a gesture of solidarity with Ukraine and an affirmation of the desire to strengthen ties between European film industries around shared values and a collective project.

    “With Best of Europe, we are creating a collective momentum that transcends borders. It is a way to celebrate the diversity and quality of our cinemas while encouraging the meeting of talents and visions on a European scale. Launching this project in Kyiv, alongside our Ukrainian colleagues, is a strong and meaningful commitment.” Yann Tonnar, President of FACE

    The Kyiv launch marks the first step of a project set to expand across Europe and beyond, providing films honored by member academies with a sustainable platform for international visibility, fully embodying FACE’s philosophy of sharing and open collaboration.Screenings will be held at the Zhovten Cinema in Kyiv.

    More info ?

    Ukrainian Film Academy Press release / Facebook

    OIFF – Odesa International Film Festival website

    OIFF Instagram