The transformation of RTVS to the new STVR brought a wave of changes. Different shows have disappeared and started, and moderators and other employees have also changed. One of the most successful Slovak directors of today – Peter Bebjak – entered the public debate forcefully. He sees the institution as an extended arm of politicians. The situation in Mlynská dolina today is not just about changing the logo or name. The institution is under the constant scrutiny of the public and the professional community.
The renowned director therefore decided to address a public appeal to his colleagues from the cultural and artistic environment. “I’m asking you, when you ever think about cooperation with STVR, consider whether it’s worth it for you to be associated with the names Flašíková, Beganyi, Šimkovičová, Machala. Whether it’s worth it for you to use your talent to help people who commit all kinds of crap in the cultural and artistic environment,” he wrote on Sunday, March 29 on the social network.
At the same time, he draws attention to disturbing practices that, according to him, take place behind the scenes of television. “STVR is a political tool of the current government set-up. Beganyi (television director) is very fond of saying that everyone was already in his office to “kiss his ring” like from the Godfather. He is wrong. They were not and I hope there won’t be more.” he said in a Facebook status.
In the movie classic The Godfather, kissing the ring was the ultimate expression of devotion and submission. By this act, the person agreed to obey his master in exchange for his protection or work, thus losing his independence.
The director is apparently implying that according to him, the current management treats artists and employees as subordinate servants, from whom they expect absolute loyalty in exchange for allowing them to create on television.
