The 33rd edition of the Febiofest film festival has begun in Bratislava and will run until March 17th. The festival’s artistic director, Ondrej Starinský, has handpicked twelve films he believes are must-sees this year. Among them is a thought-provoking psychological thriller about internet hatred and manipulation, set against a backdrop of radical re-education, and a documentary that follows the plight of journalists who left Hungary's Index.hu to create a new independent media outlet, Telex.hu.

One notable film being highlighted is a psychological thriller by Polish director Jan Komasa, which raises questions about the effectiveness of violence as a response to violence, set within an English-speaking context. This film addresses deep societal issues around manipulation and digital aggression, contributing to essential discussions relevant today. The festival features a diverse range of films that reflect pressing societal themes, making it a significant cultural event.

Another important entry is the documentary about the departure of eighty journalists from Index.hu after government pressure to control the media outlet. The film not only tells the story of these journalists' quest for independence but also personalizes it through the experiences of war reporter András. This resonates profoundly within the broader context of media freedom in Central Europe, highlighting ongoing struggles and the critical importance of independent journalism in today's landscape.