Oscar-winning Son of Saul director Laszlo Nemes’ Sunset is the official Hungarian entry for the Academy Awards
The Hungarian Oscar Committee included Kristóf Deák director (Best Live Action Short Academy Award-winning 'Sing', 2016), Ágnes Havas Film Fund CEO, Bálint Hegedűs screenwriter, András Kálmán film distribution expert, András Bálint Kovács university lecturer, Gábor Szabó cinematographer and Andrew G. Vajna government commissioner.
“'Sunset' is about a civilisation at its crossroads. In the heart of Europe, at the height of progress and technology, without being written in history, the personal story of a young woman becomes the reflection of the birth of the 20th century. The film follows from close range its main character, Irisz, allowing a very intimate approach to the drama. From the outset, I imagined this movie as a way to plunge the viewer into a personal labyrinth of obstruction along her quest to find her brother and ultimately the meaning of the world she wants to discover.” (Director’s statement)
Produced by Laokoon Filmgroup (Hungary) and Playtime (France), with the support of the Hungarian National Film Fund, 'Sunset' was made on a budget of €9 million ($10.4 million).
'Sunset' was premiered in competition at Venice International Film Festival and awarded FIPRESCI Jury Prize for Venezia 75 Competition’s Best Film. The North American premiere was held on 8 September at Toronto IFF. „The intensity of Sunset is unmistakable, confirming Nemes's extraordinary talent in this sophomore film.” (PIERS HANDLING, Toronto IFF), further screenings: 11, 12 September. The UK premiere will be hosted by the BFI London Film Festival’s Official Competition in October.
'Sunset' will be released in Hungary by Mozinet on 27 September.