The 8th Budapest Classic Film Marathon, hosted by the National Film Institute (NFI), is set to illuminate the Hungarian capital from September 16 to 21, 2025. This cinematic extravaganza will showcase a meticulously curated selection of restored film classics at various venues across Budapest, celebrating the 130th anniversary of cinema, marking the Lumière brothers’ groundbreaking public screening in 1895.
Attendees can expect a diverse program at iconic locations such as St. Stephen’s Square, Uránia National Film Theatre, Toldi Cinema, Art+ Cinema, the French Institute, and the Budapest Music Center. The festival will kick off with a pre-event day on September 14 at Müpa, featuring animated films, puppet shows, and live film concerts to set the stage for the cinematic journey ahead.
Notable screenings include Sándor Korda’s silent film, The Man of Gold, accompanied by a live performance from the Győr Philharmonic Orchestra. Buster Keaton’s timeless masterpiece, The General, will be showcased with a fresh score by the Budafok Dohnányi Orchestra at the Bartók National Concert Hall.
One of the festival’s highlights will be a tribute to Hungarian director Károly Makk, honoring his cinematic legacy with ten newly restored works, including the beloved classic Liliomfi. The event will also spotlight the groundbreaking screenwriting of Joe Eszterhas, known for pushing boundaries in Hollywood with films like Basic Instinct and Flashdance.
Furthermore, producer Robert Lantos will be recognized for his collaborations with renowned directors such as David Cronenberg and Atom Egoyan. The festival will feature a presentation titled Ingrid and Roberto – An Italian Journey, exploring the creative and personal partnership between Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini.
Enthusiasts of film noir will delight in the Light and Shadow section, showcasing restored gems from this captivating genre. Additionally, the Open Archives program will provide a rare glimpse into international film collections, offering a unique perspective on cinematic history.
Documentary enthusiasts will have the opportunity to explore films that delve into the lives of filmmakers and the art of cinema itself. The Fabulous Women from the East series will return to shine a spotlight on influential female figures in cinema, both in front of and behind the camera.
The festival will also feature a special compilation of Lumière brothers’ films curated by Thierry Frémaux, the artistic director of the Cannes Film Festival and Lumière Institute. This presentation will continue the exploration of the origins of cinema, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the early days of this transformative art form.
With a blend of classic screenings, tributes, and insightful documentaries, the 8th Budapest Classic Film Marathon promises to be a cinematic journey that pays homage to the rich history and evolution of the seventh art, offering audiences a unique opportunity to experience the magic of restored cinematic treasures in the heart of Budapest.
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