Program sections AFO60

This year’s International Competition showcases a wide selection of documentaries across various disciplines, such as evolution, ecological issues, limits of human strength, dolphins or LSD. The films offer fascinating stories and new perspectives on the challenges that shape our present.

The Czech & Slovak Competition showcases a diverse selection of the latest popular science documentaries and presents the work of a new generation of filmmakers.

Immerse yourselves in the fascinating world of science. The competition selection once again offers the latest research findings and distinctive visuals. You can look forward to snow-capped mountains, search for long-lost islands, animals from Google Maps and much more.

This year, the AFO VR Zone focuses on exploring the boundaries of virtual worlds from both technological and psychological perspectives – how attention, emotional engagement or the ability to believe that we are part of the simulated reality affect our experiences.

Music is Science is a constant work in progress – always evolving, rearranging, and seeking new possibilities. Every concert and DJ set is part of this ongoing process, with one common denominator: you, right in the middle of the dancefloor.

Film professionals, scientists and enthusiasts – step behind the scenes of audiovisual science film production and explore its work-in-progress phases. How do stories shape our perception of science? How does collaboration transform our understanding? And how does field research reveal the complexities of the world?

AFO’s accompanying programme pushes the boundaries of science popularization, offering unique experiences right in the centre of Olomouc. Get ready for a dynamic mix of interactive activities that blend science, technology and fun.

This year’s AFO exhibition programme reimagines non-competition film sections as a series of exhibitions – analyzing current audiovisual trends while offering a nostalgic look back at archival gems from AFO’s history.

At AFO, we recognize the importance of everyday scientific work. That’s why this section is dedicated to current research and education – creating a space where universities and research institutions can share their successes and challenges with the public.

The AFO Junior programme section is tailored to our youngest audience and offers a rich and varied programme for the whole family.

Systems change. Transformation. Deep transition. These phrases are used to describe the need to fundamentally change our way of life, but what does that mean for our day-to-day lives?

Beer is not only a drink, but also a deeply rooted symbol of Czech national identity. Its importance goes beyond mere consumption – it influences culture, social norms and the economy. Beer is a product that has accompanied human history since the invention of trade and the development of agriculture.

Let’s celebrate the 60th anniversary of the festival with a curated selection of documentaries from each decade of its history, enhanced with elements of dramatization and living history. Drawing from our extensive archives and period records, we aim to reveal how the audiovisual representation of science has evolved from the very first year of the festival to the present day.

The 60th AFO returns to the very roots of scientific and cinematic exploration – embracing experimentation, uncertainty and the courage to acknowledge our own ignorance. The main section, entitled Field, delves into questions surrounding scientific and research methods and the process of challenging those very methods.

In the Roomies non-competition section, we turn our attention to the often misunderstood animals that share our environment – creatures that evoke a complex mix of fear, disgust, and fascination.

The Touch section explores the vital role that the sense of touch plays in human life. In an age where physical and emotional touch is increasingly absent from our daily interactions, we delve into the meaning and significance of contact.

The section presents the latest popular science film productions from Czech Television and examines its role in popularizing science across generations. It highlights the diverse formats and topics within Czech Television’s scientific journalism, demonstrating how TV brings scientific knowledge to a wide audience.