The second day of NEM Zagreb 2024, the premier event dedicated to television and film production in Central and Eastern Europe, brought together industry professionals for a dynamic mix of workshops, discussions and celebrations of creativity. The highlight of the day was the NEM Awards ceremony, recognising excellence across three main competition categories: the Best Pre-Development Project Award, the Council of Europe Series Co-Production Development Award, and the Best Finished TV Series in the CEE Award.

The first of the three, powered by the Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC), supports outstanding scripted or unscripted projects in four categories, awarding prizes worth up to €5,000. This year’s winners included The Last Divorce of Communism by Teodora Markova and Staņislavs Tokalovs (Bulgaria/Latvia), a poignant portrayal of personal struggles at the end of communist rule; Mileva: Frau Einstein by Selena Stanković (Serbia), exploring the untold story of Mileva Marić, Albert Einstein’s first wife; Underneath the Waves by Timea Huszár and Daniel Washington (Hungary/USA), about an overlooked Gypsy mass grave in Hungary; and The Right Question by Đorđe Stanković (Serbia), an innovative quiz-show concept.

The Council of Europe Series Co-Production Development Award, worth €50,000, fosters creative collaborations among Eurimages member countries. This year’s winner, Imperial Vampire Committee by Joyrider Kft (Hungary/Czech Republic/Austria), stood out for its unique narrative. According to the jury, they “were captivated by a project that transforms history into a mirror for our times, blending the intrigue of mysticism with the weight of historical drama. Set in the vibrant tapestry of the Habsburg Empire, this narrative unearths folklore and superstition, reframing them as tools of control while exploring humanity’s eternal search for truth amidst fear. Through compelling debates on science versus convictions or belief, the strength of its female protagonists and its cultural diversity, the story becomes a vivid painting depicting today’s struggles with societal unity.”

The Best Finished TV Series in the CEE Award celebrates excellence in completed television series originating from Central and Eastern Europe. This year’s accolade went to Extractors by Keshet International and Voyo (Czech Republic), a gripping espionage thriller following a secret Czech intelligence unit tasked with rescuing endangered citizens abroad. Produced by Movie sro, it was directed by Roman Kasparovský, and written by Jaroslav Kmenta, Evita Nausová and Jan Stehlík.

The other finalists in this category included The Thaw [+leggi anche:
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As NEM Zagreb 2024 continues, it reaffirms its role as a vital platform for fostering collaboration, showcasing talent and celebrating the creative achievements of the region. With its blend of recognition, mentorship and networking opportunities, the event highlights the power of storytelling to connect audiences worldwide.

Here are all of the winners of the 2024 NEM Awards:

Best Pre-Development Project Award (Powered by HAVC)

Scripted Series
The Last Divorce of Communism - Teodora Markova, Staņislavs Tokalovs (Bulgaria/Latvia)

Scripted Feature-length Film
Mileva: Frau Einstein - Selena Stanković (Serbia)

Documentary Series/Feature-length Film
Underneath the Waves - Timea Huszár, Daniel Washington (Hungary/USA)

Entertainment Format
The Right Question - Đorđe Stanković (Serbia)

Council of Europe Series Co-Production Development Award
Imperial Vampire Committee - Joyrider Kft (Hungary/Czech Republic/Austria)

Best Finished TV Series in the CEE Award
Extractors - Keshet International, Voyo (Czech Republic)