by Adam Hanzelewicz

(ANSA) - JIHLAVA (Czech Republic) - A magical atmosphere in full respect of Jihlava's multicultural tradition pervades the 21st International Documentary Festival in the city that is living in symbiosis with an event which is now recognised by all filmmakers as the most important festival in Central and Eastern Europe. White paint on the sidewalks to trace the participants' tours from one screening room to another, shuttles from hotels out of town, merchandising, discounts and special menus in pubs and restaurants, an app to be informed 24 hours a day and a dark beer specially produced for this occasion by the local brewery founded in 1860. The festival is a 'many-coloured icon of Europe's best values, a unique opportunity to be aware of the evolution not only of documentary but of experimental films that often overlap with visual art: an event personally experienced by many young people that consider it as a meeting place, but also as a moment of serious reflection and collective growth. Among the partners is the Italian cultural institute. ''We are part of this Festival, and I also speak on behalf of my colleagues in the European Institutions, being chairman of the EUNIC Cluster in Prague - Giovanni Sciola said - because we have a 'wonderful outdatedness': that of a documentary film festival focusing on commitment, denunciation, need to encourage participation and collective knowledge. Italy is very satisfied with the fact that our participation in this festival and in other major film events in the Czech Republic and in Central Europe is growing strongly''. (ANSA).