The short film RISE!, produced by the Veszprém–Balaton European Region of Sport 2026, has won an international award
The short film RISE!, created for the VeszprémBalaton European Region of Sport 2026 program, won the grand prize at the ACES International Video Awards in Italy at the 15th Overtime Film Festival in Italy last weekend. The film – a work by script writer Dániel Simon and cinematographer and editor Kornél Máhl, was selected as the best among entries from twenty countries on four continents.
RISE (Ascent) is based on the true story of Botond Birnbauer, a para-athlete from Veszprém, and his coach, László Hencsei, about courage, human dignity, and the power of community: how strength can be born from obstacles, and how individual struggle can become collective uplift.
The film became an important milestone on the road to winning the region's title of European Region of Sport 2026.
The short film was shot over the course of nearly a month, with the participation of more than a hundred volunteers in community service. Sports clubs, handball players, futsal players, climbers, dancers, and athletes all appear in their own roles, demonstrating the true power of community in the region.
Difficulties can be overcome with the power of sport and community, emphasized director Simon Dániel, who believes that the message of RISE goes beyond the silver screen.
Sport has the power to lift people up – every athlete in Veszprém feels this, whether they say so or not. According to Kornél Máhl, the film's cinematographer, the shoot was a tremendous experience from start to finish. "Botond's story is extremely motivating for me, and it was especially gratifying to see civilians and athletes selflessly supporting us," he said. According to him, the greatest recognition is not the award itself, but the fact that the film inspires those who are struggling to find a way out of difficult situations.
Background information
ACES International Video Awards, founded by ACES Europe, honor films related to sports and the community that authentically showcase the human and social power of sport.
RISE was produced on behalf of Veszprém–Balaton 2023 JSC. and represents the spirit of community cooperation in the European Region of Sport 2026.
Due to his birth defects, Botond Birnbauer spends his days in a wheelchair, but he has found freedom in water. He has been working with his coach for eight years, and since then he has become a multiple champion and a member of the Hungarian national team, and has also performed successfully in international competitions. His strongest event is the 100-meter backstroke, and his dream is to compete in the Paralympics. He is currently studying English and physical education at Noszlopy Gáspár High School in Veszprém.
Further information:
Nikolett Kiss, Head of Department
University of Pannonia
Communications Directorate
Phone: +36 204663798