On December 10th, at Cinema Palace, Carole Tongue, Chair of the European Coalitions for Cultural Diversity (ECCD), proudly hosted the European Film Agencies’ (EFAD) screening of the Hungarian film “Semmelweis”, directed by Lajos Koltai. In line with the Hungarian Presidency of the EU Council, the event was held in collaboration with the National Film Institute of Hungary (NFI) and supported by leading organizations representing European creation : the European Audiovisual Production association (CEPI), Cineuropa, European Producers Club (EPC), Europa Cinemas, Europa Distribution, Europa International, European Film Academy, Federation of European Screen Directors (FERA) and Society of Audiovisual Authors (SAA).
In her speech, Carole Tongue reminded US that “Semmelweis is not just a historical drama; it is a call to reflect on our own era, where the principles of scientific inquiry, respect for truth, and shared humanity are under strain, especially in the European Parliament where there has been a shift to a polarised situation where we see the rise of ideologies that deny facts. Semmelweis challenges us to remember that human dignity and progress are inseparable, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that light continues to shine through the darkness we see in some parts of Europe.”
The 2023 Academy award-nominated film “Semmelweis” dramatizes the life of Hungarian Doctor Ignac Semmelweis, who discovered that handwashing with chlorinated lime drastically reduced maternal deaths and revolutionized medical practices. Directed by renowned Hungarian filmmaker Lajos Koltai, celebrated for his visually stunning and emotionally powerful works like “Fateless” (2005), the film explores themes of scientific progress, institutional resistance, and perseverance. He also depicts the devotion of Semmelweis, who faced scepticism and rejection despite the success of his life-saving protocol, ultimately dying tragically in a psychiatric hospital in 1865. His contributions, only recognized posthumously, remain pivotal to modern antiseptic practices.
After the screening, Carole Tongue and Lajos Koltai hosted a Q&A session where the director discussed the film and his interest in the historical period and the Hungarian physician it portrays. The ceremony ended with further exchanges between spectators, partners and representatives of EU institutions during a cocktail reception.
Pictures © Erlend Štaub – EFAD & Flyer invitation designed by Ana Balderramas
