Hollywood icon Meg Ryan was honored with the prestigious Honorary Heart of Sarajevo at the Sarajevo Film Festival late on Tuesday, recognizing her significant contributions to the film industry. Ryan, a beloved actor, director, and producer, was one of four distinguished film artists to receive the award, joining U.S. and Palestinian directors Alexander Payne and Elia Suleiman, as well as U.S. actor and producer John Turturro.
The festival director, Jovan Marjanović, highlighted Ryan’s incredible talents and her lasting impact on cinema as he presented her with the silver heart-shaped award. The ceremony was a highlight of the festival, which is celebrated as one of the most important film events in the region, spanning from Vienna to Istanbul.
In a touching moment, Ryan presented a special screening of her 1998 hit romantic comedy You’ve Got Mail at an open-air cinema. This screening held special significance, as the film was first shown at the Sarajevo Film Festival in 1999. The audience, filled with both longtime fans and new viewers, appreciated the nostalgic tribute to one of Ryan’s most beloved films.
During a masterclass moderated by Oscar-winning Bosnian director Danis Tanović, Ryan shared insights into her career and her recent work. She discussed her latest directorial effort, What Happens Later, which she co-wrote, directed, and starred in alongside David Duchovny. The film was also featured at the festival, showcasing Ryan’s growth and evolution as a filmmaker.
Ryan revealed that she initially ventured into acting as a way to finance her journalism studies, admitting that she was an “untrained actress” when she began her career. Reflecting on her journey, she spoke about the value of having a “beginner’s mind,” emphasizing that the naivety and innocence she possessed at the start of her career played an important role in her artistic development.
The Sarajevo Film Festival, which was founded 30 years ago during the Bosnian war by a group of passionate film enthusiasts, has grown into a prominent cultural event. This year, the festival will showcase a total of 240 films from around the world, continuing its mission to celebrate cinema and foster international dialogue through film.
As the festival continues, Ryan’s recognition serves as a reminder of the powerful influence that film can have, not just as entertainment but as a force for connection and understanding. Her contributions to the industry, both in front of and behind the camera, have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
READ MORE: