The RROMA Film Festival, now in its second edition, took place from August 30 to September 1, 2024, in Brașov and the Commune of Augustin. The festival showcased short films from talented filmmakers across 9 countries, as well as acclaimed feature films recognized at international festivals. Visitors enjoyed a rich blend of music, ranging from jazz to traditional tunes, and from Balkan rhythms to rock and roll.
This year's festival honored significant figures in Roma culture, including world-renowned jazz musicians Django Reinhardt and Johnny Răducanu, actress Rona Hartner, and cinema titan Alain Delon, known for his role in the film "Le Gitan" (1975).
The festival's jury was chaired by director and journalist Rudy Moca, who has previously made history with the first play in Romania performed in the Romani language. He was joined by Scottish director Linda Mc Cairns, composer Mădălin Voicu, and actor Sorin Mihai, a previous winner at the festival.
The opening day featured a dual book launch at the Cultural Center Reduta, where attendees met actor Rudy Moca, now an author, and Albanian director Enxhi Rista, who presented her book on Albanian and Balkan cinema.
The opening gala included a film dedicated to jazzman Django Reinhardt, performances by Michael Crețu and Rudy Moca, and a remarkable gypsy jazz recital by the Michael Crețu Trio.
On the second day, short films were presented at the Cultural Center of Augustin, attended by many of the filmmakers and actors. The audience also enjoyed a concert by the Transylvania Brass Band, along with a local culinary exhibition.
The festival concluded with a special screening of "300 Roma Tears - Johnny's Legacy" and a masterclass on Roma culture from Michael Crețu, who engaged with attendees, including local senators and deputies.
The awards ceremony recognized outstanding contributions, including the Best Actress award for Brândușa Anghel in "Granny's Got a Gun" and the Best Film award for "VOLARE, VOLARE!" directed by Cecilia Rizzuto and Marco Vinz Pinnavaia.
The RROMA Film Festival is organized by the CRN Association and supported by local government entities, emphasizing the importance of cultural initiatives in promoting Roma heritage.