Karlovy Vary’s Krystof Mucha on Continuing the Legacy of Jiri Bartoska

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The passing away of renowned Czech actor and long-term president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF), Jiří Bartoška in May, has left a significant void. However, the festival’s leadership under Rockaway Arts, its majority owner, has pledged to uphold the values and maintain the high quality that Mr. Bartoška established throughout his tenure.

As a devoted admirer, I’m thrilled to share that Rockaway has commended the robust and reliable leadership spearheaded by Executive Director Kryštof Mucha. In a touching tribute, they announced that the post of president will be forever associated with the memory of Jiří Bartoška, who will not be replaced.

Since 1997, Mucha has been a part of the festival team, serving as its executive director since 2004. Recently, he has taken on an additional role as the chairman of the board for the KVIFF Group. Karel Och, the artistic director, and Petr Lintimer, head of production, continue to be key members of the festival’s management team.

After my recent promotion, I shared that for several years, I had a fantastic experience collaborating with Jiří Bartoška. Witnessing his thought process and his vision for the festival was truly enlightening. I am confident that, alongside Karel Och and Petr Lintimer, we will be able to carry on his tradition effectively.

Before the commencement of this year’s 59th edition of KVIFF, THR had a conversation with Mucha to delve into the legacy of Bartoška, the division of responsibilities within the festival, the emphasis on preserving tradition while introducing some fresh elements, and other related topics.

As a gaming enthusiast reminiscing about the past, I’d say: “Back in the ’80s, Bartoška was the most renowned TV and film personality. He was also a significant figure during the revolution of 1989 that toppled communism in Czechoslovakia, and he was well-acquainted with bigwigs like Miloš Forman and others.” According to Mucha, I had the pleasure of working hand-in-hand with this legendary actor and festival president from 2000 to 2001. My relationship with him grew even closer after I took on the role as executive director in 2004.

He primarily managed the placement of the film festival within the Czech context, securing sponsors, obtaining government support, and city backing from Karlovy Vary. He was instrumental in all these aspects. Upon his passing, I took over his role, but we decided to abolish the position of festival president. The way he ran the film festival made him a towering figure, and as president, his stature was fitting.

This year, the festival has chosen to honor Bartoška by kicking off with the film “We’ve Got to Frame It! (A Conversation With Jiří Bartoška in July 2021)”, followed by screenings of a classic film he starred in and an exhibition showcasing large-scale photos of him. According to Mucha, it’s a way to commemorate the incredible accomplishments of this remarkable individual.

Mucha emphasizes that their working relationship with Och and Lintimer isn’t just about individuals; it’s all about the collective effort of a team. He believes this is the ideal approach at the moment.

The role that Mucha had in the festival, which primarily involved representing the event and interacting with celebrities, politicians, and other notable figures within the country, was previously handled by Jiří Bartoška. However, things are set to change as Karel and he will now share these responsibilities more evenly. For instance, when a guest is being honored at an award ceremony, both of them will be presenting the accolade. On the other hand, Petr, in his role as production director, will accompany Mucha during events for festival sponsors, thus distributing tasks among us.

Attending major film festivals like Cannes and Sundance with Mucha and Och provides significant advantages. “By being present together, we can swiftly make crucial decisions. It’s also beneficial to have our artistic director and executive director participate in such events jointly.

Instead of undergoing drastic changes, Mucha foresees a progressive development for KVIFF. One such progression is the recent adjustments to their industry program, which now includes an extra day this year. This update brings a more defined emphasis on Central European co-production possibilities, presented in a refined showcase format called the KVIFF Central Stage, and the introduction of a series incubator.

According to Mucha, the pace of change in our industry is rapid. Previously, we had a program for ongoing projects, but currently, things are distinct because each major project already has confirmed sales and public awareness.

Emphasizing collaboration possibilities in Eastern and Central Europe, which encompasses countries like Germany and Austria, appears to align well with our strengths. “This is the region where we believe we can make a significant impact and thus, wish to concentrate our efforts here. It’s an opportunity that could bring mutual benefits.

This year, television is taking on a more significant part, with events such as the global debut of the Serbian miniseries “Absolute 100” in the festival’s Special Screenings category.

Additionally, Central European Media Enterprises (CME), a company that owns television businesses across Central and Eastern Europe, discussed a potential expanded partnership with KVIFF regarding their industry program. As Mucha explained, “We had discussions about film and TV, and we both agreed this was an ideal moment to initiate something fresh.”

Central European Media Enterprises (CME) talked with KVIFF about possibly working together more in the entertainment industry. They felt it was the right time to start a new project, according to Mucha.

The Pop-Up Series Incubator has unveiled its fresh lineup of five unique European series concepts. As Mucha emphasizes, “We’re not altering the core theme of the festival towards television. However, if a top-notch film emerges from TV, we’d be delighted to showcase it. There are no boundaries for us. This is just a natural progression. It’s our first time venturing into this, and we hope it succeeds and brings positive outcomes. If it does, then we can build upon these successes.

In summary, Mucha emphasizes that the trio managing KVIFF are seasoned professionals capable of upholding Bartoška’s legacy, all the while fostering innovation.

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to share my thoughts: “I was usually part of the team, working alongside him, though often not in the limelight. For countless years, we’ve been an integral part of this esteemed festival. If some still harbor doubts about organizing it, I believe that works to our advantage. The festival in Karlovy Vary will retain its familiar charm, yet it will serve as a fitting tribute to the legendary Jiří Bartoška – a remembrance that carries a positive connotation.

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2025-07-02 11:54