The Serbian documentary 'Miracles Are Possible,' produced by Film Club Prokuplje, has received significant international acclaim, winning four awards at the Satyajit Ritwik Mrinal International Kolkata Film Festival in India. The festival, named in honor of cinematic legends Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, and Mrinal Sen, recognized the film for Best Film, Best Screenplay, Best Idea, and Best Music.
'Miracles Are Possible' delves into the history of the 'Topličanin' Boxing Club from Prokuplje, a club that was once a dominant force in the sporting world, accumulating numerous accolades from competitions across former Yugoslavia, Europe, and globally. The film utilizes archival footage, interviews, and a distinct artistic approach to recreate the vibrant era when boxing symbolized Prokuplje's sporting heritage and community pride.
The 'Topličanin' club's legacy is particularly highlighted, with its strong performance in the 1970s and 1980s, including achieving the runner-up position in the Yugoslav championships four times and developing many national representatives and medalists. Žikica Jovanović, who served as the film's author, screenwriter, and director, expressed his satisfaction with the film's reception, stating, "It's a great satisfaction when you make a film that will remain for future generations as a memory of the greatest successes." He also noted the film's unique narrative, adding, "We are especially pleased because we told this story in a slightly different and original way, and festivals recognize that."
The documentary's success extends beyond its local community, resonating with a wider audience and underscoring the vital role sports documentaries play in preserving history and fostering identity. The film's impact is further demonstrated by the warm reception in Prokuplje, where the 'Topličanin' Boxing Club honored Jovanović with a jersey, symbolizing the film's success in reviving community pride. The film's crew, including Ivica Trailović for music and sound, Zvezdan Marković for cinematography, Branislav Rosić for organization, and Milan Rakić for photography, were crucial to its realization.
To date, 'Miracles Are Possible' has been screened at five competitive and two non-competitive festivals, securing a total of seven awards. This achievement marks it as one of Film Club Prokuplje's most successful endeavors, showcasing the enduring power of stories that capture athletic dedication and community legacy.