KVIFF Sets Jiri Bartoska Tribute With Opening Film, Exhibition, La Roux to Perform Opening Concert

The upcoming 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) will honor its late president Jiří Bartoška by opening with the film “We’ve Got to Frame It! (A Conversation With Jiří Bartoška in July 2021)“, directed by Jakub Jurásek. Additionally, screenings of Radek Bajgar’s movie “Tiger Theory“, featuring the esteemed Czech actor and former festival president, will be shown. Furthermore, an exhibition titled “Jiří Bartoška – KVIFF President” will also be presented.

On Wednesday, it was announced that the opening concert will be performed by the Grammy-winning British synthpop band La Roux.

Bartoška, a prominent figure in Czech theater, television, and cinema prior to the Velvet Revolution, who played a crucial role in preserving the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival and served as its president and public representative for many years, passed away in early May at the age of 78.

The festival describes “We’ve Got to Frame It!” as a friendly, casual conversation between producer Milan Kuchynka and [Bartoška], covering various topics ranging from his time at grammar school and the Velvet Revolution, to his encounters with celebrities.

Paying homage to the legendary Jiří Bartoška, I’m thrilled to be part of the celebration by attending the screening of “Tiger Theory.” This thought-provoking tragicomedy delved deeply into human relationships and gender roles, offering a captivating performance from our beloved actor.

For the art enthusiasts, the exhibition promises an unmissable experience. With 30 large-scale panels displayed outdoors between the iconic Thermal and Pupp hotels, you’ll have the chance to wander through 60 striking black-and-white images. These photos, expertly captured by festival photographers, encapsulate the most memorable moments of the festivals, as well as intimate portraits of the illustrious figure who led the Karlovy Vary Festival for three decades in this beautiful Czech spa town.

Simultaneously, La Roux is scheduled to give a complimentary performance at Hotel Thermal’s entrance on the 4th of July. In keeping with custom, there will be a firework show after the performance.

In 2009, La Roux’s first self-titled studio album received widespread acclaim and achieved significant commercial success, earning multiple awards. This record gave birth to popular tracks like “In for the Kill,” “Bulletproof,” and “I’m Not Your Toy.

KVIFF 2025 runs July 4-12.

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2025-06-25 12:55