Zurich becomes film capital

The basic aim of the Zurich Film Festival is to discover and promote young and up-and coming film talents. This year, again many of these talents were given the chance to show their work in the presence of renowned filmmakers and in front of a big audience. In the international competition, which constitutes the core of the Zurich Film Festival, 24 feature fiction- and documentary filmmakers again competed for the endowed prizes. The most convincing works have been awarded the "Golden Eyes" at the glamourous Closing Night. The winners were chosen by a a top-class jury under the guidance of jury president Peter Fonda.

A fine selection of side events and parties completed the programme of the 4th Zurich Film Festival.

Renowned guests from all over the world turned Zurich into a bustling film capital, and established filmmakers as well as up-and-coming newcomers presented their latest work in person. In 2007, we had the honour to welcome Oliver Stone as A Tribute to-guest and awarded him for his lifetime achievement. In 2008, the A Tribute to-Award was dedicated to Costa-Gavras, the grand old man of political thriller. A special highlight was the Golden Icon award night, where Sylvester Stallone was honoured for his lifetime achievements and personally accepted the award to thundurous applause and standing ovations.

Next year, we will again award special personalities for their lifetime achievements and are already looking forward to present you with new talents and the latest cineastic highlights of the year 2009!