In an interview with Alexander Payne, the renowned United States (U.S.) director and long-time friend of Sarajevo, much was revealed about his connection with the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and the Sarajevo Film Festival (SFF). Payne first visited Sarajevo nineteen years ago and has returned three times since, twice as a festival participant.
When asked about the changes he notices in the city, Payne responds cautiously, admitting that his visits last only a few days, which makes it difficult to grasp the city’s evolution fully. However, he does observe clear differences in the city’s functionality, noting that Sarajevo in 2005 was in the process of recovery, while today he sees a smoother, more developed city.
Regarding the festival itself, Payne speaks nostalgically about its early days when SFF was in a growth phase, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement and hospitality. “Twenty years later, the festival feels much more polished,” says Payne, adding that although the festival has become more professional, it hasn’t lost the warmth and intimacy that makes it special.
According to Payne, the SFF is not just a film event but an experience that every visitor carries with them. Payne believes that anyone who has been part of the festival becomes its ambassador, spreading the good word about Sarajevo and the festival worldwide. He admits that he has become an ambassador for the festival and is happy to recommend his film-making colleagues visit Sarajevo.
Although he hasn’t had much time to explore the city during this visit, Payne expresses a desire to one day return to Sarajevo outside of festival obligations to get to know the city and surrounding country better. “I would love to tour BiH a bit,” says Payne, adding that he has previously visited Mostar but would like to see other parts of the country as well.
His role as an ambassador for the SFF shows how significant this festival has become not only for the film industry but also for promoting Sarajevo as a cultural and tourist destination.
And, when it comes to food, cevapi and fish are the main dishes for this U.S. director these days, N1 writes.
E.Dz.
