As part of a cross-Canada program of cultural events marking Hungary’s 1956 revolution, the Hungarian Consulate presents the Freedom First – Hungary 1956 Film Festival featuring films about that historic Revolution. The uprising of October 1956 not only asserted Hungary’s national identity, but represented the first real resistance to the Soviet empire – the 1956 Revolution was the beginning of the end of communism. The festival runs from Nov. 17-20 at TIFF Bell Lightbox.
On the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution of October 23, 1956, the Freedom Fight was a defining event in both Hungarian and Canadian history. Canada and the Canadian people welcomed Hungarian refugees in an act of compassion, humanity and generosity. Canada welcomed 37, 565 Hungarians after the Uprising.
Freedom First – Hungary 1956 Film Festival is a presentation of films about or themed around the revolution. The selected movies and documentaries show different aspects of how the Freedom Fight directly affected the lives of everyday people, how fear can be part of daily routine, how the desire for freedom can create heroes.
The list of films includes:
Sunshine – A Napfény Íze directed by Robert Landos, who will be there for Q&A following the screening, Friday, November 18.
The documentary film, Young Rebels, produced by Susan Papp, who will also be there for a Q&A following the screening, along with some of the Canadian-Hungarians, who appear in the documentary.
A presentation of the CBC-produced The Fifty-Sixers, with Anna Porter in attendance for a Q+A following the screening. Both taking place on Saturday, November 19.
On Sunday, November 20 the filmThe Face of the Revolution – In Search of a Budapest Girl which will be followed by a live performance of János Balázs, one of Hungary’s most acclaimed pianists, who will also take part in a Q&A.
Tickets to all screenings are FREE, and can be requested in advance by calling TIFF Box office 416-599-8433 or available at the door 350 King St. West. For full listings of films and special guests, click here.
