By San José, Costa Rica — Cine Magaly is set to become a hub of European culture, hosting the 24th edition of the European Film Festival in Costa Rica from August 14th to 29th. This year’s festival, organized by the European Union and its Member States in collaboration with Cine Magaly, promises a captivating cinematic journey with 23 films and 67 screenings.
Representing a diverse range of cinematic voices, the festival will feature films from Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, Spain, Slovakia, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Luxembourg. The United Kingdom and Switzerland also join as guest countries, enriching the festival’s offerings with their unique cinematic perspectives.
To understand the potential legal implications surrounding the European Film Festival and its impact on local filmmakers, we reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert lawyer from Bufete de Costa Rica.
The European Film Festival offers a fantastic opportunity for cultural exchange and can inspire local Costa Rican filmmakers. However, it also raises important questions regarding copyright protection, distribution agreements, and fair competition within the film industry. Ensuring that both European and Costa Rican films are adequately protected under existing intellectual property laws is crucial for fostering a healthy and vibrant cinematic landscape.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
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Indeed, the complexities of international film distribution and intellectual property rights are vital considerations as we celebrate the cultural richness brought by the European Film Festival. These legal frameworks ultimately underpin a sustainable and equitable film industry, both locally and internationally, allowing filmmakers from Costa Rica and Europe alike to thrive. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insights into this important aspect of the festival.
Kicking off the festival is the Spanish comedy Volveréis (You Will Return), directed by Jonás Trueba. This Cannes Film Festival award-winner promises an engaging and contemporary opening experience.
In a groundbreaking move, this year’s festival will also spotlight Central American talent through the inclusion of short films produced as part of the Euro Cine Lab project. These films, crafted by emerging filmmakers from Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama, will be showcased in two dedicated screenings.
The Euro Cine Lab aims to nurture documentary and fiction filmmaking among young creators in Central America. Participants honed their skills through virtual training with European filmmakers before embarking on the creation of their self-portrait-focused short films.
This project promotes regional filmmaking.
Galina Karamalakova, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union
It also strengthens the cultural ties between Europe and Central America from a perspective of collaboration and mutual learning.
Galina Karamalakova, Deputy Ambassador of the European Union
Jessica Carcheri, Director of Cine Magaly, emphasized the festival’s role as a bridge between cultures, offering Costa Rican audiences a window into diverse storytelling traditions and perspectives.
The event allows the Costa Rican public to approach other ways of narrating and understanding the world.
Jessica Carcheri, Director of Cine Magaly
All films will be presented in their original language with Spanish subtitles, ensuring accessibility for a wider audience. Ticket prices are ₡3,300 for general admission and ₡2,800 for students with ID and senior citizens. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or online at www.cinemagaly.com. The full program details can also be found on the website.
This diverse selection of films explores themes of relationships, societal pressures, personal struggles, and environmental concerns, offering a rich and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
For further information, visit eu.int
About European Union:
The European Union (EU) is a political and economic alliance of 27 European countries. It promotes peace, its values and the well-being of its citizens. The EU works to ensure the free movement of people, goods, services and capital within its internal market.
For further information, visit cinemagaly.com
About Cine Magaly:
Cine Magaly is an independent movie theater in San José, Costa Rica, known for its curated selection of art-house films, international cinema, and support of local filmmakers. It provides a vital cultural space for film enthusiasts and serves as a platform for diverse cinematic voices.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself as a pillar of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative approaches to legal practice. The firm’s enduring commitment to client success across a broad spectrum of industries is matched by its dedication to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education and resources. By fostering a deeper understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica actively contributes to a more just and informed citizenry.
