Srpska's Film 'The Witness' Premieres in Paris, Unveiling Truths

The film The Witness by acclaimed director Denis Bojić made its Parisian debut, marking a significant cultural and historical moment for the Serbian community and a wider European audience. Organized through the collaborative efforts of the the Republic of Srpska Representation in Brussels, the Federation of French Serbs, and the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Paris, the screening aimed to bring the truth about Serbian suffering during the wars of the 1990s to light.

A Historical-Documentary Testament

The film delves into the harrowing experiences of the Serbian people during the tumultuous breakup of Yugoslavia and highlights the monumental work of Professor Dr. Zoran Stanković. Created as a co-production of the Radio-Television of Republika Srpska and the Republic Center for the Research of War, War Crimes, and the Search for Missing Persons, The Witness is a compelling historical document. It serves not only as a reminder of the tragedies of the Patriotic War but also as a counter-narrative to global misinformation about the events of that era.

A Distinguished Audience

The premiere drew a notable audience, including BiH Ambassador to France Bojana Kondić Panić, President of the Federation of Serbs in France David Jakovljević, and Minister of Labor and Veterans and Disability Protection of Republika Srpska Danijelo Egić. Attendees also included representatives of various embassies, European parliamentarians, journalists, members of the Serbian community in France, and other distinguished figures from Paris's political and cultural circles.

A Call for Truth

The screening left a profound impact on the audience. Colonel Zak Ogar emphasized the urgent need for this film to be widely seen across France and Europe, stating that global misinformation about the Serbs has obscured the truth for too long. Similarly, Minister Egić underscored the importance of the film in spreading awareness of the Serbian people's suffering on an international scale.

Ambassador Kondić Panić noted that the film provides critical insights into the historical events that many are unaware of, offering an essential perspective on the tragedies of the former Yugoslavia. David Jakovljević drew parallels between the atrocities of Jasenovac and the brutalities faced by Serbs during the recent wars, calling attention to the recurring patterns of violence and discrimination.

Overcoming Challenges

Director Denis Bojić expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the premiere, acknowledging the organizational hurdles faced due to censorship and media resistance. Some Parisian cinemas declined to screen the film, citing its political sensitivity. Despite these challenges, Bojić and the organizers persevered, ensuring that this vital story reached a global audience.

A Universal Message

The common sentiment among attendees was that The Witness is not only a story for the Serbian people but a universal call for truth and understanding. By shedding light on these painful chapters of history, the film contributes to a broader dialogue about justice, reconciliation, and the importance of acknowledging past atrocities.

The Witness stands as a powerful testament to resilience and the pursuit of truth, resonating with audiences beyond the borders of the Balkans and inspiring critical reflections on humanity's shared history.