The UK-Czech production/sales company Taskovski Films is behind the launch of the Banja Luka International Film Festival (BLIFF) from May 2-9 in the city in northwest Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Apart from a competitive programme for latest international features, documentaries and student films, this first edition will include sidebars dedicated to 100 Years of Russian Film, Peace and Tolerance, Film & Laughter, and Women Directors.

Festival director Irene Taskovski is also planning a series of training workshops and seminars given by European experts for local filmmakers.