Cato Kusters to Open Film Fest Gent with Debut Feature Julian
Flemish director Cato Kusters will kick off the 52nd edition of Film Fest Gent this October with her debut feature, Julian, reports 24brussels.
The film draws from the memoir authored by artist and LGBTQ+ activist Fleur Pierets, depicting the journey of two women pursuing marriage in every country where it is permitted, resulting in an ambitious artistic endeavor and a “world tour of love.”
“It’s a powerful story that remains relevant, especially at a time when so many people’s rights are under pressure,” Kusters emphasized.
In September, Kusters will make history as the youngest Belgian director to feature at the Toronto International Film Festival, and she will follow this with the distinction of being the youngest to open Film Fest Gent with her debut film.
Wim De Witte, programme director of the festival, remarked, “By opening the festival with Cato Kusters’ film, we hope to contribute, however modestly, to Fleur Pierets’ dream and her fight for an inclusive society where love, for and between all people, is a fundamental right.”
Kusters obtained her master’s degree in directing from the RITCS School of Arts in Brussels. Her short film, Finns hiel, which premiered in 2022, won first prize in the Best Belgian Student Short category at Film Fest Gent.
“It’s a powerful story that remains relevant, especially at a time when so many people’s rights are under pressure.”
“For me, the festival is one of the most important tastemakers in the European landscape, and one of the most wonderful places to celebrate cinema. To open here with Julian is truly an honour,” Kusters stated.
Produced by brothers Michiel and Lukas Dhont, Julian features Laurence Roothooft and Nina Meurisse in lead roles. The film is set to be released in Belgian cinemas on 29 October.
