Bosnian drama “I Know Your Soul” emerged as the standout winner at this year’s Heart of Sarajevo awards for TV Series, hosted by the Sarajevo Film Festival. Written by acclaimed Bosnian filmmaker Jasmila Žbanić, the six-part series dominated the drama categories, securing seven wins including Best Drama, Best Script, and Best Directing. The show, which made its debut at the Venice Film Festival, saw Žbanić clinch the award for Best Script, while Nermin Hamzagić took home the Best Directing accolade. Lead actress Jasna Đuričić was recognized as the Best Actress in a Drama Series, further solidifying the show’s success.
“I Know Your Soul” follows the story of Nervena, a prosecutor navigating the challenges of a divorce while raising a teenage son. When she delves into the circumstances surrounding an adolescent’s death, it sets off a chain reaction of events that significantly impact her personal and professional life. With HBO Max securing the rights for Central and Eastern Europe, Žbanić’s role as both producer and showrunner highlights the depth of her involvement in bringing this compelling narrative to life.
In Memoriam
Tragically, Serbian actor Žarko Laušević, who passed away in November 2023, posthumously received the award for Best Actor in a Drama Series for his role in the World War I drama “Time of Death.” His poignant portrayal left a lasting impression on audiences and the industry alike, underscoring the power of his craft.
Comedy Triumphs
In the realm of comedy, Bosnian series “Smashing It” and Serbian series “Radio Mileva” both enjoyed success at the awards ceremony, each securing three wins. “Smashing It” claimed the titles of Best Comedy, Best Actor in a Comedy Series for Alen Muratović, and Best Script for its team of talented writers. On the other hand, “Radio Mileva” saw Olga Odanović scooping the Best Actress award, while Elmir Jukić and Kris Gavrić received recognition for Best Directing and Rising Star respectively.
Expansive Selection Criteria
A diverse array of drama series and comedies from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Slovenia were in contention for the awards, with works premiered between April 1, 2023, and April 30, 2024, eligible for consideration. A stringent selection process, overseen by a panel of esteemed film and TV professionals, determined the nominations and eventual winners of the Heart of Sarajevo Awards, showcasing a commitment to honoring excellence in television.
The roster of winners at the Heart of Sarajevo awards included standout titles such as “I Know Your Soul” for Best Drama Series, Jasna Đuričić for Best Actress in a Drama Series, and the late Žarko Laušević for Best Actor in a Drama Series, posthumously recognized for his exceptional performance in “Time of Death.”
The Heart of Sarajevo Awards serves as a testament to the vibrancy and talent within the television industry across the Balkan region. As audiences continue to embrace diverse narratives and storytelling styles, the recognition bestowed upon these outstanding series and performances only further underscores the pivotal role that television plays in shaping cultural conversation and forging emotional connections with viewers worldwide.
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