Changing Face of Europe Program Returns to Hot Docs With 10 Films Exploring Themes of Identity

variety.com:

Jennie Punter The Changing Face of Europe, which is presented by European Film Promotion (EFP) in collaboration with Hot Docs, returns to Toronto with the sixth edition of its festival-within-a-festival program—nine features and one mid-length film—exploring themes around identity, belonging and struggle. “Over the years, the Changing Face of Europe has become one of the more impactful programs in the lineup, and also an essential component of our festival programming,” Hot Docs artistic director Shane Smith told Variety in advance of the festival. “Europe has a rich history of and strong connection to the art of documentary filmmaking,” he said. “We are delighted to showcase the powerful work coming out of the continent that sheds light on crucial issues facing Europeans today.” World-premiering “A Happy Man” (Slovakia, Czech Republic), written and directed by anthropologist and filmmaker Soňa G.

Lutherova (“Flooded”), tells the story of Marvin, who has moved from the Czech Republic to Sweden with his husband and their two young children, and recalls his recent past as a trans man.

The film follows Marvin and his family over two years, from the time he officially applies for gender change through 2022. “Ultimately, our film is about love and respect for one another as human beings,” commented Lutherova. “I hope that with every story like Marvin’s, we help people to understand that life, family and relationships all have many forms.” “Happy Man” is produced by Maroš Hečko and Peter Veverka (who is taking sales inquiries at Hot Docs) for Azyl Production, Hanka Kastelicová, Tereza Keilová and Tereza Polachová for HBO MAX; and co-produced by Filip Čermák for Company F.