Bosnian Director Jasmila Žbanić Made Jury Head at 6th Edition of GFF

Jasmila Žbanić, the highly acclaimed Bosnian film director and screenwriter, has been appointed the head of the jury for the sixth edition of El Gouna Film Festival. With a career marked by impactful storytelling and thought-provoking narratives, Žbanić brings a wealth of experience and artistic vision to the festival.

Žbanić’s debut feature film, ‘Grbavica’ (2006), which won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, delved into the aftermath of the Bosnian War and its emotional toll on a mother and daughter. This powerful exploration of the conflict and its lingering effects set the stage for Žbanić's subsequent works, which continued to examine the complexities of post-war Bosnia and Herzegovina.

With films like ‘On the Path’ (2010) and ‘Quo Vadis, Aida?’ (2010), Žbanić has consistently demonstrated her ability to blend personal narratives with historical events, creating compelling and thought-provoking stories. These films tackle themes of trauma, resilience, and the impact of war on individuals and communities. ‘Quo Vadis, Aida?’, a harrowing account of the Srebrenica massacre during the Bosnian War, has garnered international acclaim and earned a nomination for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards.

As the head of the jury at the El Gouna Film Festival, Žbanić's discerning eye and deep understanding of storytelling will undoubtedly shape the festival's selection process.