The first "FEST", subtitled "Brave New World", was opened on January 9, 1971, at the Dom Sindikata, with a screening of the film "MASH" by Robert Altman. Conceived as an annual overview of the best films of the season, the International Film Festival "FEST" has grown into one of the most significant film events and has become one of the main cultural highlights of the country, where many young generations have grown up. What characterized it throughout the years is the fact that it has been open to world cinemas and all relevant authors, as well as films that will not be found in cinemas. The festival's history is marked by numerous great world actors and directors who have been guests of the festival: Marcello Mastroianni, Harvey Keitel, Liv Ullmann, Bernardo Bertolucci, Sofia Loren, Robert De Niro, Antonioni, Johnny Depp, Milos Forman, Catherine Deneuve, Wim Wenders, Abbas Kiarostami, Hanna Schygulla, Rafelson, Schlöndorff, Russell, and many others. Since its inception, "FEST" has always had a main and several accompanying programs, which often exceed the name "accompanying" with their quality. "Accompanying" also included numerous publications, exhibitions, symposiums held during the festival. In 2015, "FEST" became a real competitive festival with four competitive selections: the Main Competition Program - international selection, the Serbian Film Program - national selection, the Frontiers Program - subversive and controversial films, and films from the region competing for the Nebojša Đukelić Award. Another innovation is the introduction of the Belgrade Victor Award for exceptional contribution to film art, as well as the Belgrade Victor Award for previous achievements. You can find the program on the organizer's website.