Gergely Kotsis, a final-year directing student at the University of Theatre and Film Arts (SZFE), has scored three nominations at this year’s MOZ.GO – Hungarian Motion Picture Festival for his graduation short film If You Cross the Great Mountain. The film is competing in the categories of Best Short Fiction, Best Leading Actor, and Best Supporting Actor.
The story centers on a former canoeist facing personal decline, with standout performances from Péter Horkay and László Szacsvay. Notably, Horkay—returning to film after two decades—earned a nomination as the only student film actor in his category.
Kotsis, who wrote the script himself, drew inspiration from his background in competitive fencing and personal experiences. He describes the film as a fictional work deeply woven with existential themes and emotional realism.
“The nomination surprised me, but I’m proud. Péter’s comeback makes it even more special,” said Kotsis.
He began his filmmaking journey self-taught and later joined SZFE, first in documentary directing before switching to fiction under mentors Lajos Koltai and Emil Novák.
“Documentary taught me how to observe people. Fiction lets me express my inner world,” he added.
The short was produced as part of his MA exam, with Koltai actively supporting the project during development and filming.
Source: University of Theatre and Film Arts (Színház- és Filmművészeti Egyetem, SZFE)
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