On the third day of the MOZ.GO Hungarian Motion Picture Festival, audiences turned their attention the behind-the-scenes world of filmmaking, and the celebrated artists receiving lifetime achievement awards from the Hungarian Film Academy.
In addition to a packed program of feature films, television movies, shorts, documentaries, and animated films, the day featured a deep dive into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and cinema—one of the industry’s hottest topics. As part of the Film Academy’s professional day, attendees explored real-world applications of AI in film production. Experts showcased practical tools and workflows, highlighting the opportunities and challenges posed by the rapidly advancing technology.
The Balaton Cinema in Balatonfüred was filled to capacity for the premiere screening of Kell egy oroszlán, a full-length documentary that uncovers the surprising success of Veronika Marék’s 1961 children’s book Laci and the Lion in Japan. The illustrated story has sold over 700,000 copies in the country and remains a beloved classic across generations. In the film, director Ábel Visky follows Marék and a group of children as they uncover the roots of this unexpected and heartwarming international legacy.
Secrets of another kind were revealed during the discussion Landing the Lead Role, which pulled back the curtain on the casting process. Director Nóra Lakos and casting director Villő Demeter walked audiences through the journey of casting the young protagonist in I Accidentally Wrote a Book, offering practical insights and advice for aspiring performers.
The highlight of the day came Friday evening, when the Hungarian Film Academy and the Hungarian Motion Picture Festival presented their prestigious lifetime achievement awards. Held at the Balatonfüred Congress Center, the ceremony was broadcast live on M5 and attracted significant public interest.
This year’s honorees included casting director Mari Makó; stunt coordinator Gábor Piroch; singer-songwriter Ferenc Demjén; actress Irén Bordán; actor László Gálffi; internationally renowned producer Robert Lantos; and acclaimed cinematographer-director Lajos Koltai.
The day captured the diversity, creativity, and rich heritage of Hungarian cinema—while also looking boldly toward the future.
– Virág Vida –
