Peter Sarsgaard, Vicky Krieps Address Politics at Karlovy Vary Film Festival

TL/DR –

The 59th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic opened with honorees Peter Sarsgaard and Vicky Krieps using their acceptance speeches to comment on American politics and the broader geopolitical landscape. Sarsgaard touched on America’s retreat from global responsibilities, political divisions, and the importance of collective action. Krieps advocated for movies as a medium to cross borders and share powerful messages, advocating for continued support of the film industry to spread messages of love, peace, and forgiveness.

Politics Dominates Karlovy Vary International Film Festival Opening Ceremony

The 59th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) in the Czech Republic opened on Friday, with celebrities Peter Sarsgaard and Vicky Krieps using their acceptance speeches to discuss global politics and divisions.

At the black-tie event, Krieps and Sarsgaard received the KVIFF President’s Award.

Sarsgaard addressed the stage following a standing ovation, stating that good work in any field, including film, requires a supportive environment. He also discussed the current political divisions within the United States in relation to gender, race, and sexuality.

He concluded his speech with a plea for unity against divisions, quoting former Czech president Václav Havel: “One half of a room cannot remain forever warm, while the other half is cold.”

Krieps, too, spoke against divisions. She explained that if used correctly, movies can cross borders and deliver powerful messages without considering background or financial status.

Continuing her speech, Krieps emphasized the need to preserve movies as they offer a platform for spreading love, peace, and forgiveness.