Hungary's film industry is preparing for potential revitalization and reform following Viktor Orbán's electoral defeat last month, ending his 16-year rule.
Industry Reaction
The surprise election results were met with enthusiasm within the Hungarian film community. László Nemes, director of the Oscar-winning film "Son of Saul," expressed relief, stating to Variety that Hungary is "thrilled to wake up from this nightmare." His latest work, "Moulin," is competing for the Palme d'Or at Cannes this week.
Incentive Program Stability
Budapest, which ranks as Europe's second-largest production hub after the U.K., experienced a slowdown in late 2025. This was partially due to uncertainties surrounding Hungary's 30% incentive scheme, which the Orbán government had cast doubts upon. Adam Goodman, managing partner of Mid Atlantic Films, emphasized the importance of stabilizing this program to maintain international production partnerships.
Production has already picked up in 2026, a trend expected to continue. Ildikó Kemény of Pioneer Stillking Films noted the support from the incoming administration, led by Prime Minister Péter Magyar, which promises reforms to enhance the industry's global competitiveness.
Reforms and Opportunities
The National Film Institute (NFI) is expected to undergo changes to depoliticize film financing, a move many in the industry view as critical for fostering creative freedom. Dorottya Helmeczy of Megafilm Service highlighted the challenges faced by young filmmakers under Orbán's regime, emphasizing the need for new opportunities.
Emerging talents like Ádám Farkas, Hajni Kis, and Gábor Reisz have navigated through financial and political constraints, marking a shift away from the big-budget historical dramas favored during Orbán's tenure. Instead, lighter commercial films, such as Dénes Orosz's "How Could I Live Without You?," have gained popularity.
New Directions
Hungarian producers are exploring new genres and international markets. Megafilm's "Chili Pepper and Gunpowder," a Western-style film, exemplifies this trend. Helmeczy is also marketing remake rights for "Just One More Wish," a film she believes fits the mold of classic American blockbusters.
A highlight of this transformative period is the period drama "Embers," produced by Robert Lantos and directed by Oscar-winner Istvan Szabó. The film, based on Sándor Márai's novel, features stars like Ralph Fiennes and Viggo Mortensen, focusing on a distinctly Hungarian narrative.
Future Prospects
Viktoria Petrányi from Proton Cinema believes the new liberal regime could unlock projects shelved during the Orbán years. She emphasizes the industry's responsibility to "rebuild and reestablish some values that we lost." While acknowledging that recovery will take time, there is optimism for a "new day" in Hungarian cinema.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/global/hungarian-film-industry-new-day-post-orban-era-1236731173/
