The filmmaker Paolo Tizón shines in Karlovy Vary with "Night Came"

Peruvian filmmaker Paolo Tizón has taken an important step in his career by presenting his first film, "Night Came," at the 58th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in the Czech Republic. This film, a co-production between Peru, Mexico, and Spain, has been selected to compete in the "Next" category of the prestigious event, which highlights the work of new directors and innovative proposals in the world of cinema. In "Night Came," Paolo Tizón offers a sensitive and profound look at life in a military barracks where a group of recruits prepares to face conflict situations in an area marked by coca production and drug trafficking, such as the case of the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) in Peru. The film delves into the complexities of masculinity, pre-Hispanic traditions, and the role of the Armed Forces in the Andean country. The Peruvian director, trained at the Elías Querejeta film school in the Basque Country, Spain, has expressed that the premiere of his film at Karlovy Vary is a special moment for him, especially in a complicated political context in his native country, where institutional crises and debates on creative freedom in cinema are ongoing. Tizón has pointed out that the recent approval of a law against free cinema in Peru threatens independent film production and artistic freedom. In this sense, Paolo Tizón has expressed concern about attempts at censorship and state control in the Peruvian film industry through legislation that limits funding and the dissemination of works addressing sensitive or critical issues. The director has warned of the risks posed to cultural diversity and creativity by imposing restrictions and reducing state support for audiovisual production. Within the framework of the Karlovy Vary Festival, held in a historical and picturesque setting in Bohemia, the presence of "Night Came" stands out as one of the most relevant proposals of Ibero-American cinematography in this edition. Paolo Tizón's film thus becomes a tribute to the memory of Óscar Catacora, a prominent Peruvian director and screenwriter who recently passed away, whose artistic legacy and commitment to national cinema are remembered in this work. Amid a global landscape where cinema faces constant challenges and transformations, the presence of emerging directors like Paolo Tizón in international festivals such as Karlovy Vary is essential to showcase new voices and cinematic proposals that explore complex social and cultural realities. "Night Came" stands as a testament to the talent and passion of a young Peruvian filmmaker seeking to make a mark on the international scene with an original and committed proposal. The screening of "Night Came" at Karlovy Vary represents a milestone in Paolo Tizón's career and an opportunity for his work to transcend borders and connect with audiences from different parts of the world who may see themselves reflected in the stories and reflections presented in the film. The participation of the Peruvian director in this prestigious festival is a recognition of his creative work and an encouragement to continue exploring the possibilities of cinema as a means of expression and social transformation. In a context marked by debates on freedom of expression, cultural diversity, and the role of art in society, the presence of films like "Night Came" in international events takes on a special significance, opening spaces for reflection and dialogue on relevant and urgent issues. Paolo Tizón thus joins the community of filmmakers committed to telling authentic stories and making an impact through their work on the big screen, solidifying his position as a filmmaker with a unique voice in the current cinematic landscape.