With a gala screening of the French film Divertimento, a true and inspiring story about the transforming power of music, the European Film Festival 2025 was officially opened last night at the Montenegrin Music Centre. This festival stands as one of the most significant cultural events organised by the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro.
Divertimento, an emotional and powerful story directed by Marie-Castille Mention-Schaar, follows two sisters who, despite numerous obstacles, form an orchestra and carve out a space for themselves in the world of classical music. The audience had the opportunity to enjoy a film that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and resilience—values at the very heart of European identity.
The festival was officially opened by Riccardo Serri, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, who stated:
“The European Film Festival is part of a broader Month of Europe celebration, which was organised throughout May across Montenegro. This year’s programme included numerous cultural and public events. In every municipality, we celebrated in a unique way, showcasing local creativity and engagement. Tonight’s festival evening is dedicated to music—a universal language that transcends borders, erases differences, and connects people across generations and cultures. The EU Delegation proudly supported all these initiatives, which best reflect the strong and deepening ties between the European Union and the people of Montenegro.”
The opening night programme was further enriched by a striking performance from the actor-musician ensemble Actors Sing, who blended acting, music, and emotion into a dynamic show. Their interpretations of well-known songs, a short theatrical introduction to the film, and a late-night concert delighted the audience and set the tone for the rest of the festival days.
The European Film Festival 2025 continues in Podgorica on 31 May, with a panel discussion featuring actor Momčilo Otašević, followed by a screening of the Danish comedy Fathers & Mothers, directed by Paprika Steen. The festival will then travel to Bijelo Polje (1 and 2 June) and Bar (6 and 7 June), featuring a film programme from Luxembourg, Romania, Malta, the Czech Republic, Italy, and Croatia, as well as concerts, talks, and workshops.
All screenings are free of charge and open to the public.
The European Film Festival 2025 is organised by the Delegation of the EU to Montenegro through the Europe House project, with the support of the Cineuropa platform, and in partnership with the Montenegrin Cinematheque, the Montenegrin Music Centre, the Film Centre of Montenegro, NGO Multimedia, the Cultural Centre Bijelo Polje, and the Cultural Centre Bar.
Your evening, your city, your film – see you at the European Film Festival 2025.