TIRANA, Sept 22 /ATA/ The Tirana International Film Festival officially opened its 24th edition on Monday evening, with the theme ‘Bring it back! HUMANOGRAPHY’. This year’s focus highlights not only the stories shown on screen, but also the people, processes and decisions behind their creation.”
The opening ceremony began with a special screening of the film Mother, directed by Teona Strugar Mitevska, who was also honoured with the festival’s Award of Distinction. The film portrays a decisive moment in the life of Mother Teresa in Calcutta in 1948, where faith, ambition and a sense of duty collide, confronting her with a profound personal dilemma.
The film premiered in the Orizzonti section of the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, and was later honoured with the Award for Best Artistic Contribution at the Tokyo International Film Festival. Mother offers an intimate and human portrait of Mother Teresa, one of the most renowned figures of the 20th century.
The opening ceremony was also attended by producer and actress Labina Mitevska, together with director Teona Strugar Mitevska. In the days ahead, both will hold dedicated masterclasses, with Labina Mitevska focusing in particular on the development and production process of Mother.
Teona Strugar Mitevska is one of the most prominent filmmakers from North Macedonia. Among her works is God Exists, Her Name Is Petrunya, a film that has received more than 20 international awards, including the Ecumenical Prize and the Guild Film Prize in Germany.
The 24th edition will present 229 films from 71 countries, including 27 feature films and 202 short films. All titles are world, international, regional or national premieres. With the theme ‘Bring it back! HUMANOGRAPHY’, this edition of TIFF seeks to offer a deeper perspective on the challenges, creative processes and decisions behind the making and development of a film.
Following the opening ceremony, TIFF 2026 continues with screenings, meetings, masterclasses and activities that place cinema and its creators at the centre.
