11th Turkish Film Week kicks off in Croatia

The 11th edition of the Turkish Film Week, organized by the Croatian-Turkish Friendship Association (HTUP), has begun in Croatia’s capital, Zagreb.

Highlighting cultural ties through cinema

The event, supported by the Turkish embassy in Zagreb and the Zagreb Yunus Emre Institute (YEE), is held under the patronage of the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media.

The opening film was “Cep Herkulu: Naim Suleymanoglu,” directed by Ozer Feyzioglu, which tells the inspiring story of Naim Suleymanoglu, a legendary figure in Turkish sports history.

Nurdan Erpulat Altuntas, Türkiye’s ambassador to Zagreb, highlighted the unifying power of cinema in her opening remarks, stating, “I believe cinema transcends language and borders through its storytelling power, offering different perspectives, traditions, and values, and fostering empathy.”

HTUP President Goran Beus Richembergh also emphasized their aim to showcase why Turkish cinema has gained international recognition, saying, “We are an association that brings together two countries and two cultures.”

Week of diverse screenings

From now until Oct. 26, the festival will feature five films and two documentaries, offering a variety of Turkish cinema to local audiences. All screenings will be free, with Turkish audio accompanied by Croatian and English subtitles. The selection includes award-winning films, providing viewers an opportunity to experience Turkish cinema at its finest.

The 11th Turkish Film Week in Zagreb not only celebrates the rich storytelling of Turkish cinema but also strengthens cultural bonds between Türkiye and Croatia.