Alexander Dubček and the Cinematic Drama that Changed History
Opportunity
Slovakia has never had such an opportunity!
This is our film, our story, and our mark on world cinema.
The Story of the Century is not only about Alexander Dubček – it is about courage, freedom, and a nation that the world should finally learn about.
Every euro is a vote for a Slovakia that dares to dream big.
About the Project
Title: The Story of the Century
Format: Grand film trilogy
Genre: Historical drama with epic, political, and mystical elements
Tagline: The man who stood up to empires and made an indelible mark on the Cold War narrative
Alexander Dubček:
His name became synonymous with hope, freedom, and courage. During the Cold War, Alexander Dubček was known worldwide.
Life shaped by three continents:
Our story starts before Alexander’s birth, in a land of big dreams and contrasts – the United States of America. His parents’ spent a significant part of their adult lives there, far away from their homeland and Europe. In the United States, they were shaped by experiences that expanded their world views and values, which were later transferred to their son and helped broaden his perspective.There was more travel, so part of Alexander’s childhood was spent in present-day Kyrgyzstan, amid the Soviet experiment. Here, we witness the merging of ideals, harsh reality, mystery, and the uniqueness of diverse cultures. Europe during the 20th century was where history was being shaped, and it is there, where Alexander’s great political journey takes place. All these locations and travels together formed a man who, despite confrontations with the conflicting empires, believed that politics should remain humane.
- Why This Story Matters
- Some stories are greater than one lifetime – they shape generations
- An opportunity for Slovakia to speak to the world through art, courage, and culture
- A timely reminder that courage and hope matter, even in uncertain times
The Film’s Unique Character
Not just a historical film:
An epic family saga set against the backdrop of global events
– Political history intertwined with mysticism – strange coincidences, signs, and destiny.
First film takes audiences to a world in turmoil, where empires fall and new ideals are born.
The award-winning team of creators will take you to places where the future of the world was decided- from small villages to great metropolises, from the United States to the farthest reaches of Asia.
Why is this film being made?
Because some stories are bigger than one life- they are stories that can change generations.
Because this is not just a historical epic. It is a chance for Slovakia to speak to the world through its art, its courage and its culture. We can show that even from a small country a great work can emerge. During this time full of uncertainty, once again, we need to believe
that courage and hope have meaning. We need to dream of a better world again.
Production Scope
– Award-winning creative team
– Filming locations across Slovakia, Europe, Asia, and the United States
– Authentic period design, sets, costumes, and props
Who stands behind the movie?
PRODUCER
Andrej Antonio Leca
born 1980, Slovakia
Slovak film and theater producer, artist, and visionary dedicated to creating cultural projects with international reach. As the founder of LECA FILM production and the LECA civic association, he stands behind major events and upcoming film projects, including the feature film The Story of the Century. In his work, he connects art, history, and the values of freedom and human dignity, collaborating with renowned figures of world cinema. His mission is to bring powerful stories that resonate with audiences both in Slovakia and abroad.
MAIN DIRECTOR AND CO-SCRIPTWRITER Lordan Zafranović
born 1944, Croatia
A prominent Croatian film director and screenwriter, regarded as one of the key figures of the Yugoslav Black Wave. He gained acclaim for his powerful World War II trilogy Occupation in 26 Pictures (1978), The Fall of Italy (1981), and Evening Bells (1986), which earned him multiple Golden Arena awards at the Pula Film Festival and a Palme d’Or nomination at Cannes for Occupation in 26 Pictures. His early films, including his debut Sunday (1969), confirmed his modernist style and his courage in addressing generational and social themes. Throughout his rich career, he also created award-winning documentaries such as Blood and Ashes of Jasenovac (1985) and received multiple awards for his lifetime contribution to European cinema, as well as an Oscar nomination.
CO-DIRECTOR, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER AND DRAMATURGIST
Roman B. Janečka
born. 1972, Slovakia
Internationally experienced filmmaker and director who has collaborated on projects with legends such as Ridley Scott, Miloš Forman, and Juraj Jakubisko. With his precision, visual sensitivity, and professionalism, he is a respected figure in the film world. His involvement in The Story of the Century is a great asset and a guarantee of top quality.
MAIN CAMERAMAN
Ján Ďuriš
born 1944, Slovensko
Cinematographer, professor, and head of the Department of Cinematography at the Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava, he is one of the most respected Slovak masters of the visual image. His camera speaks through emotion — capable of capturing both historical detail and intimate human drama with equal power.
ARCHITECT/ Supervisor
Dante Ferretti
born 1943, Taliansko
A renowned Italian production designer and art director, celebrated for his visionary collaborations with film legends such as Pier Paolo Pasolini, Federico Fellini, Martin Scorsese, and Tim Burton. He has won three Academy Awards for The Aviator (2004), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007), and Hugo (2011). Among his other famous works are Gangs of New York, Shutter Island, and Interview with the Vampire, where he created fascinating cinematic worlds full of detail and emotion.
ARCHITECT
TOMÁŠ BERKA
Tomáš Berka is one of the most prominent figures in Slovak scenography and film architecture. For decades, his work has combined artistic sensitivity with technical perfection. He has been behind the architecture of many important films and television projects, and his name resonates not only in Slovakia but also abroad. As a film architect, he collaborated with the legendary Juraj Jakubisko, participated in major productions with international filmmakers, and his work has been part of projects featuring names such as Franco Zeffirelli and Emir Kusturica. He has worked on international co‑productions filmed not only in Central Europe but also in Italy and in the countries of the former Yugoslavia, earning recognition at prestigious festivals. On the Story of the Century project, Tomáš Berka brings his experience from large-scale films and co‑productions, his sense for historical authenticity, and visual beauty. He helps create an environment that is authentic, striking, and worthy of a feature film with international ambitions.
CREATIVE PRODUCER
Nicoletta Ercole
b. 1953, Italy
A renowned artistic producer and world-class costume designer, known for her collaborations with film legends and international stars. Throughout her rich career, she has designed costumes for personalities such as Anthony Hopkins, Al Pacino, Sophia Loren, Franco Nero, Nastassja Kinski, and Penélope Cruz. She is a member of the American Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, as well as the European and Italian film academies.
Funding Goals
Fundraising target: € 50,000
Development budget: €750,000
Estimated total film budget: €12 million
Even though our main goal on Donio is € 50,000, the campaign is set up so that as soon as for example, €1,000 is raised, the money will help move the project forward immediately, which is crucial for the success of this project.
Funding Milestones
€1,700
– Finalisation of the completed script
€10,000
– Completion of Key Preparatory Work
– Finalisation of the completed script
– Basic production & filming plan
€40,000
– Casting & Expert Documentation
– Engage casting agencies (domestic & international)
– Prepare materials for film funds
– Draft partner contracts
– Commission location scouts
€50,000
– Preparatory Work
– Architecture, set design, construction, props, decorations
Be a part of this journey – together, we can achieve great things.
Join Us
Help us introduce “Story of the Century” to cinema screens and to the world. Because the past deserves to be heard and the future needs inspiration.
Dedication
A Tribute to Forgotten Heroes
This film is dedicated to:
– All who endured wars, prisons, and dictatorships
– Those who suffered under communism, fascism, and other regimes
– Builders of society whose sacrifices have been forgotten
The Story of the Century is a tribute to their lives, courage, and message.
Help us ensure their story is told powerfully, truthfully, and forever.
