Stockholm, November 5, 2024 – The 35th Stockholm International Film Festival kicked off in grand style on the night of November 5, as Skandia Theatre transformed into a glamorous hub of cinematic celebration. The historic venue, packed with filmmakers, actors, critics, and movie aficionados, buzzed with excitement as Sweden’s biggest film festival launched its much-anticipated anniversary edition.
Cover photo by Anton Isiukov courtesy of the Stockholm International Film Festival
The festival, established in 1990, has steadily grown to become a staple in the international film circuit, lauded for its commitment to showcasing diverse voices, innovative storytelling, and boundary-pushing artistry. This year is no exception, with a record-breaking number of films from 60 countries, including both renowned and emerging filmmakers, many of whom were in attendance on opening night.
Opening Night and Opening Film: Anora by Sean Baker
Setting the tone for the festival, the opening film Anora by acclaimed American director Sean Baker captivated the audience with its raw storytelling and nuanced exploration of human resilience. Known for films like The Florida Project and Tangerine, Baker has established himself as a master of social realism, and Anora did not disappoint. The film, which follows the journey of a young woman navigating a complex world of societal pressures and personal crises, aligns with the festival’s commitment to presenting bold narratives.
After the screening of the opening film, Skandia Theatre was turned into a big party with cocktails, pop corn an art installation, a grunge band and a lot of glamour! We could go around mingling with the guest celebrities, directors, actors and film stars whilst also enjoying great live music and a DJ until late at night, all wrapped up in an air of cinema grandiosity.
Watch our video from the Opening Gala:
Spotlight Theme: Men in Crisis
This year’s thematic spotlight, ‘Men in Crisis‘, is a powerful exploration of masculinity, vulnerability, and identity in a rapidly changing world. Through a selection of films from across the globe, the festival delves into narratives that confront the complexities men face in both personal and societal contexts. The films in this section range from dramas to documentaries, with each story offering a distinct perspective on the challenges that men encounter when confronted with traditional expectations, modern-day pressures, and internal conflicts.
Festival Director Git Scheynius spoke about the theme, highlighting its relevance in today’s world. “We’re in an era where conversations about masculinity are evolving rapidly, and film has the unique power to capture these shifts. ‘Men in Crisis‘ presents films that are both intimate and universally relatable, helping audiences engage with the changing definitions of manhood and mental health.”
Country in Focus: Canada
This year’s Country in Focus is Canada, with a curated selection of Canadian films showcasing the diversity and creativity of the country’s film industry. Canada’s selection includes dramas, documentaries, and indigenous films that reflect the country’s multicultural society and rich storytelling traditions. Known for nurturing both bold, experimental filmmakers and talented, independent voices, Canada’s influence on global cinema is celebrated throughout the festival with screenings, panels, and discussions on Canadian film’s unique cultural contributions.
In honor of this spotlight, several prominent Canadian filmmakers and actors are attending the festival, engaging in discussions about the growth of Canadian cinema and the impact of Canada’s multicultural landscape on its storytelling.
A Festival Lineup Full of Surprises
With over 150 films from 60 countries, this year’s lineup is set to be one of the festival’s most compelling yet. The Spotlight and Country in Focus features are joined by a series of special sections, including 1km Film, which awards a grant to an emerging Swedish filmmaker, and Stockholm Tribute, a retrospective that celebrates some of the festival’s most iconic moments over the past 35 years.
During this year’s opening night we were also delighted with a screening of a film by last year’s 1km Film winner, Ville Gobi. He presented his film Myggor och Salta pinnar about the daze of a typical Midsummer celebration in Sweden, the result of a year’s hard work since his triumph last year, showing us that dreams do come true.
The Visionary Award, a highlight of the festival, will honor filmmaker Steve McQueen, who has consistently pushed the boundaries of cinema. This award has become a tradition at the festival, underscoring the festival’s ongoing dedication to creative courage and artistic risk-taking.
Immersive Events and Master Classes
The Stockholm International Film Festival isn’t just about screenings—it’s a full cinematic experience. With workshops, master classes, and VR experiences that allow audiences to explore new dimensions of storytelling, this year’s edition offers something for every kind of film lover. The festival’s Master Class series will feature discussions on the impact of digital storytelling, environmental sustainability in filmmaking, and the role of cinema in cultural preservation. The virtual reality experiences are especially anticipated this year, offering audiences a chance to “step into” stories in a way that feels both innovative and immersive.
A Celebration of Cinema’s Power to Connect
As the lights dimmed at Skandia Theatre on opening night, festival-goers left with a renewed sense of excitement for the journey ahead. The Stockholm International Film Festival’s 35th edition is a tribute not only to the art of filmmaking but also to the universal power of storytelling—a reminder of cinema’s ability to bridge cultures, challenge conventions, and explore complex human experiences.
With a schedule packed with innovative films, thought-provoking panels, and exclusive insights into Canadian and global cinema, this year’s festival promises to inspire, entertain, and connect audiences from all walks of life.
Check our article Unmissable films at Stockholm Film Festival 2024, your guide to this year’s best films jewels.
