Dhimitër Anagnosti, a leading figure in Albanian cinema, died in the early hours of 1 September at the age of 89.

Earlier today, his daughter Juna announced the news on social media. She wrote: “Farewell Dhimitër Anagnosti, the director of our lives! After a long struggle, you followed the law of life. Farewell, dear father!”

He was born in the village of Vuno, Himara, on 23 January 1936. Later, he completed high school with distinction at “Ali Demi” in Vlora. After that, he studied at the Film Institute – VGIK, Moscow (1954-1960). He graduated as a cinematographer.

In addition, he worked as a director and screenwriter. He also wrote novels and plays. Meanwhile, he shot his diploma film, “The Man Never Dies”, based on a story by Hemingway. The film won the “First Prize” at the Film Schools Festival in the Netherlands in 1961.

After graduation, he joined the “Shqipëria e Re” [New Albania] Film Studio. There, he contributed as a director, screenwriter, and cinematographer. As a result, his work helped develop modern Albanian cinema. In addition, audiences and critics continue to recognize his films.

The state awarded him three Albanian Republic Prizes in 1969, 1979, and 1983. He also won three Cups at the Albanian Feature Film Festivals. Furthermore, he received numerous other awards.

His most notable films include “Red Poppies on the Walls”, “In Our House”, “A Tale from the Past”, and “Gjoleka, Abaz’s Son”. These films received international recognition in 1980, 1983, 1985, 2005, and 2006. Later, in 1987, the state awarded him the title “People’s Artist.” In 1995, he received the “Career Award” at the 10th Albanian Feature Film Festival.

He served as a member of parliament for the Democratic Party in Albania’s first pluralist legislature. In 1992, he became Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports in the first democratic government.

Finally, in 2011, the President of the Republic of Albania awarded him the honorary title “Honor of the Nation” for his contribution to Albanian culture and art.

/a.p./