Christof Papousek to Receive Honorary Heart of Sarajevo at the 30th Sarajevo Film Festival

(Patria) - In recognition of his exceptional support for the Sarajevo Film Festival and local film production, Christof Papousek, co-owner of Constantin Film-Holding and financial director and managing partner of Cineplexx International, will receive the Honorary Heart of Sarajevo at the 30th Sarajevo Film Festival.

"It is an honour to be part of the family with the Heart of Sarajevo – because I too have a heart for Sarajevo," said Papousek, whose connection with the city and the Festival is long-standing and fruitful.

The successful partnership between the Sarajevo Film Festival and the Cineplexx cinema group has lasted for more than a decade. The Cineplexx Sarajevo multiplex is the venue of the 30th Sarajevo Film Festival with the largest number of cinema halls in one location, where festival audiences have the opportunity to watch films from various festival programmes. This year, Cineplexx's Barco Series 4 projectors, which will be part of the equipment used at the Festival, will provide audiences with the highest quality screenings.

"Film is art and entertainment; cinema is the home for films and the best way to experience a film – in all its complexity. Cinema hosts blockbusters and art films, commercial content and festivals. Cineplexx is proud to host the Sarajevo Film Festival in the city centre and proud to support it with the best available technology for film screenings," said Papousek.

"The Sarajevo Film Festival is important for understanding culture, history and politics. The atmosphere, excitement and quality of the films motivated me to support the Festival from our first days of business here."

Christof Papousek joined the Constantin Film & Cineplexx group in 1999, after working as a consultant, and restructured the company's financial department and structure. In 2004, he became CEO and CFO, and in 2008, together with the Langhammer family and Constantin Film-Holding GmbH, he co-founded the international cinema operation of the Cineplexx International group, as an entrepreneur and co-owner.

At the same time, Cineplexx International formed a partnership with Enver Hadžiabdić, marking the beginning of Cineplexx in the Southeast European region. Today, the company operates 70 cinemas in 12 countries, including all countries of the former Yugoslavia. Cineplexx supports local film production and values the importance of domestic films.

"Our deepest gratitude goes to Christof for his unwavering support and partnership over the years. His dedication to our shared vision has not only enriched our Festival but has also created a true friendship that we deeply cherish. This Honorary Heart of Sarajevo is a token of our gratitude for his lasting commitment and invaluable contribution to the world of film," said Mirsad Purivatra, President of the Sarajevo Film Festival.

The Honorary Heart of Sarajevo was established in 2005 to recognise exceptional achievements of individuals in the affirmation and development of the film industry, as well as support for and development of the Sarajevo Film Festival.