May the ancient light shine

As part of the Cinema at the Vigadó series organised by the Film and Photography Section of the Hungarian Academy of Arts, audiences are invited to the premiere screening of Sándor Gerebics' historical docudrama May the ancient light shine – Szigetvár 1566.

The heroic defence of Szigetvár led by Count Miklós Zrínyi and his soldiers stands as one of the defining moments not only of Hungarian history but, arguably, of sixteenth-century European history as a whole. Their sacrifice remains a powerful example of patriotism, courage, and unwavering commitment. As it did on so many occasions throughout history, Hungary stood as the defender of Europe's frontier. Produced with the participation of leading Hungarian historians and more than five hundred historical re-enactors, the film recounts this heroic struggle and explores its lasting historical legacy.

"We believe that historical films have taken on the role once played by ballads, helping society process the traumas of the past. In this respect, Zrínyi's heroic stand in 1566 is indispensable. His example shows what choices remain open to an honourable person in times of great historical adversity. It is therefore a matter of public importance how the message of Hungary's historical heroes reaches younger generations and those far from home."
— Sándor Gerebics, director

"Only a diminished nation forgets the greatness of its ancestors;
Only a fallen age forgets its heroic forebears.
The devoted return to the resting place of their forefathers
And kindle new flames from the ancient light.
And when the light of the present begins to fade,
May the ancient light shine again upon the homeland!"
(János Garay)

May the ancient light shine– Szigetvár 1566
Hungarian historical docudrama, 50 min (2018)

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2yHtNq5x1XU

Narrator: Réka Peti-Peterdi
Poetry: Péter Ézsiás
Cinematography: Attila Farkas, Róbert Máté Patócs H.S.C., György Geo Tóth
Director & Producer: Sándor Gerebics

Organiser: Film and Photography Section of the Hungarian Academy of Arts

Please note, that the event is in Hungarian!