Petrányi was presented the prize at a gala ceremony by Allianz Bank CEO Gábor Hegyi. The Budapest Bár, together with the singer Dóra Behumi, performed at the event. The Hungarian director István Szabó, who is chairman of the jury of the European Film Festival, was also present.
Hegyi said Petrányi was one of just a few producers who brought a new approach to Hungarian film, an approach important from the financial and economic viewpoints as well, and one that would advance the country's entire film industry.
The first prize was chosen "subjectively, as an example to follow", but from next year, a professional jury will pick the prize winters, Hegyi said.
This new approach has to do with "content development" from the moment of conception until the film is screened for an audience, and this can really only be seen in an international context, said Petrányi. All producers in Hungary practice this approach, but some have done so for much longer than others, she added.
Petrányi acknowledged her alliance with Mundruczó may have reinforced a creative element in the director's films, but added that "talent makes our paths and he would have been successful with anybody".
The first European Film Festival is taking place in Alpok Ls Arcs on December 5-12. Hungary is the guest of honour at the festival and twelve contemporary Hungarian films are being shown outside of the competition.
Source: Hungarian News Agency (MTI) / Photo: filmkultura.hu
