The area of the Zlín film studios comes to life

Zlín - The Zlín film studios complex wants to revitalize more entities operating within it. The studios, which were opened on July 1, 1936, as a place for shooting commercial films for the Baťa company, have produced nearly 1,800 film titles so far. However, in recent years, production at the studios has declined. They are now attracting visitors to the complex in Zlín's Kudlov with the Cabinet of Film History and the Zlín Film Node, which recall the history of local filmmaking and its famous figures. Both spaces were recently opened during the Zlín Film Festival for children and youth.

"Visitors are primarily interested in the history of the studios, the opportunity to learn more about the origin and development of Zlín film, about the lives and works of local creators, to be on site and experience the atmosphere. Parents are looking for unconventional activities for their kids, so creative workshops are also in demand. There is also interest in our film café, which will offer its own cultural program alongside usual services," said Lukáš Sušila, director of the Film Node, to ČTK. The Node also offers professional support for the production of animated films.

The history of the studios and the Zlín Film Festival, which was held for the 56th time this year, is presented by the Cabinet of Film History established by the owner of the film festival, Filmfest. With support from the Production House, which provides technical support for the festival and the Cabinet, Filmfest not only organizes the festival and studies the history of film in Zlín but also publishes, organizes exhibitions, and supports contemporary cinema, especially among the younger generation, said ČTK president of the festival and owner of the company Čestmír Vančura. Funds for the projects also come from the proceeds of the traditional auction of artistically crafted film clappers at the festival.

The Bonton Zlín Studios also operate in the complex, which has laboratories, as does the Secondary School of Film, Multimedia and Computer Technology. The company S - Media of Zdeněk Skaunic also has plans here, having previously consolidated most of the real estate in the complex. "Residential construction will begin in the fall. At the same time, project preparation is underway for another four buildings. The intention is being successfully realized, which will not only preserve specific film activities but also bring entirely new functions to the complex. The complex will be open to the public while retaining a certain resort character," said Skaunic to ČTK, who intends to engage in film and television production within his production company Film Studios. "Currently, three TV projects with international co-production and two films for theatrical distribution are in development," he said.

Entities operating in the studios are attempting to connect their projects. "About 200 people work here, plus another 200 people are at the film school," stated Vančura. "There is a new group of owners, trying to find common ground regarding the operation of the complex, communications, and engineering networks. Even more importantly, cooperation in the field of audiovisual and the development of further creation is crucial. We are trying to create some concept of development and are working to coordinate these activities," Vančura stated.