Budapest, Hungary – In a resounding triumph for Hungarian cinema, Lajos Koltai’s latest masterpiece, “Semmelweis,” has captivated audiences nationwide, emerging as the highest-grossing domestic film in half a decade. The movie, set to debut at the European Film Market in Berlin, heralds Koltai’s triumphant return to the director’s chair after his acclaimed work on Giuseppe Tornatore’s “Malena” as an Oscar-nominated cinematographer.
“Semmelweis” chronicles the remarkable life of Ignac Semmelweis, the Hungarian physician renowned as the “savior of mothers” for his pioneering introduction of antiseptic procedures at a Vienna maternity clinic during the 19th century. Driven by passion and tempered by adversity, Semmelweis embarks on a relentless quest to unravel the mysteries of puerperal fever, a perilous epidemic plaguing his patients.
Since its premiere on Nov. 30, “Semmelweis” has captivated over 280,000 moviegoers, dominating the local box office charts for nine consecutive weeks and amassing a staggering $1.7 million in revenue. Against the backdrop of 19th-century Vienna, Koltai’s cinematic opus unfolds, portraying Semmelweis’s tumultuous journey as he clashes with entrenched medical orthodoxy, faces professional sabotage, and navigates a forbidden romance with the spirited midwife Emma Hoffmann.
Reflecting on the enduring relevance of Semmelweis’s legacy, Koltai remarked, “His life is a testament to the indomitable spirit of human perseverance and unwavering dedication. Through ‘Semmelweis,’ we celebrate the triumph of courage over adversity and the enduring power of passion.”
Miklós H. Vecsei delivers a mesmerizing performance as the titular character, embodying Semmelweis’s unwavering resolve amidst mounting opposition. The film’s narrative, penned by Balázs Maruszki, is brought to life through the evocative cinematography of András Nagy and the stirring musical compositions of Attila Pacsay.
Produced by Tamás Lajos at Szupermodern Filmstúdió and Joe Vida, “Semmelweis” stands as a testament to the vibrant resurgence of Hungarian cinema, supported by the unwavering commitment of the National Film Institute of Hungary.
“Semmelweis” emerges as a poignant tribute to a national hero, reaffirming Hungary’s rich cinematic heritage and inspiring audiences worldwide with its timeless message of resilience and redemption.
