07/03/2024 - The upcoming documentary from the Slovak filmmaker will examine the nexus between politics and humanity, exploring the historic presidency of Zuzana Čaputová

Slovak filmmaker Marek Šulík (Heavy Heart) is working on a time-lapse documentary titled Ms. President, about Zuzana Čaputová, Slovakia's first female president. Šulík and his crew gained access to the president, her advisory team, and the Presidential Office, enabling them to document significant domestic and international activities, providing insight into the operations and challenges of Slovakia's highest office. Prior to her election, Čaputová was a lawyer and anti-corruption activist with limited political experience. Despite this, she became one of the country's most popular politicians during her presidency. Čaputová, a divorced mother of two who supports gay rights and opposed attempts to restrict abortion rights, assumed the presidency in a country where conservative values are prevalent.

Ms. President aims to provide an in-depth look at Čaputová's tenure as a progressive female leader in a region where such leadership is uncommon. The film intends to cover not only the operational aspects of her political role but also the personal and emotional effects of her presidency on Čaputová herself. Šulík seeks to deliver a comprehensive view of her time in office, a period marked by significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, an energy crisis, and rising inflation. During Čaputová's presidency, Slovakia experienced significant political volatility, with five different prime ministers, four government changes, the rise of right-wing populism, and increased instances of misogyny. 

According to producers, the documentary is set to offer a thorough examination of the nexus between politics and humanity, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of leadership and governance. The film will delve into the complexities of political structures, the dynamics of leadership, and the personal sacrifices leaders must often make. It will also consider the impact of the digital age on politics, particularly in how social media and digital communication influence public opinion and the behaviour of political leaders. The documentary will employ a blend of journalistic techniques and interviews to weave a rich, layered narrative. 

More than just a documentary observation, Šulík's film seeks to capture the essence of Čaputová's presidency through various storytelling methods, including reporting and interviews. Contributing to the project, Slovak documentarist Robert Kirchhoff (All Men Will Be Brothers [+see also:
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Ms President is produced by Hitchhiker Cinema (Slovakia) and co-produced by Aerofilms (Czech Republic), Radio and Television Slovakia, Czech Television, and filmotras (Slovakia). The Slovak Audiovisual Fund and the Czech Film Fund supported the project. Theatrical release in Slovakia is scheduled for November 2024 and handled by Film Expanded.