Feature film “Dražen” screens in USA and Spain

by croatiaweek
May 23, 2025
in Entertainment

Ljubo Zdjelarević, General Consul Renee Pea and Jack Baric in Los Angeles (Photo: Kintoteka)

Following a well-received screening in Granada, Spain, as part of the international PLAY film festival, and the sale of streaming rights to Movistar+ – Spain’s largest SVOD platform – the feature film Dražen continued its international journey with a screening in Los Angeles.

This sale represents a notable step forward for the visibility of Croatian cinema in the Spanish market.

The Los Angeles screening was held at the Laemmle cinema as part of Croatian Heritage Month, a series of cultural events celebrating Croatian identity, history, and contributions to the local community.

The event brought together many members of the Croatian community living in Los Angeles and surrounding areas.

Croatian-American filmmaker Jack Baric, who was also in attendance, emphasized the importance of the occasion:

“Elected officials in Los Angeles proclaimed May an official Croatian Heritage Month in Los Angeles to honor the contributions of Croatian immigrants to the United States. Dražen Petrović’s time in the NBA perfectly embodies that spirit, and this wonderful film was a great contribution to our month.”

Also present was the Consul General of the Republic of Croatia in Los Angeles, Mrs. Renee Pea, who shared a few words with the audience:

“Dražen is more than just a sports story – it’s a reminder of what dedication, talent, and national pride really mean. It’s wonderful to see how Dražen’s legacy continues to inspire Croatians around the world.”

Producer and co-director Ljubo Zdjelarević was guest on both international events – in Spain and the U.S. – and took time after the Los Angeles screening to speak with the audience.

(Photo: Kinoteka)

He reflected on the process of making the film and the emotional response it has received:

“Dražen was a unique figure, and telling his story was both a challenge and an honor. It’s great to see that the film resonates with people, no matter where they’re from.”