Borbély Alexandra, the Hungarian actress and director, stars in the film Emma and the Halalfly Moth, where she plays the lead role. The movie delves into the adversities faced by the Hungarian minority in Slovakia during the fascist Slovak puppet state era.
“I grew up as a minority in Slovakia, and this role resonates deep within me. There is a scene in the church where Slovak and Hungarian people try to mutually purify the communion wafer with a chalice. This is my answer to the question when people ask how it was being a child in Slovakia – that Slovaks would come up with such a topic. It shows great courage to face our wrongdoings.”
— Borbély Alexandra commented in an interview with Telex.
Struggles of the Slovak Minority
Alexandra highlighted the recent challenge faced by the Slovak minority in Hungary. In 2024, there was a plan to impose higher priority on the use of the official language in predominantly Slovak areas, a measure more stringent than in the 1990s. However, she believes, “It would be even more extremist for Fico’s party if Orbán didn’t set the trend for them regarding Hungarianness.” Alexandra also shared her experience of facing atrocities from a young age but never wanting to leave Slovakia. She expressed this sentiment saying, “Neither my husband, Ervin Nagy, nor I will go anywhere. We’ll make it better here.”
Challenges on Set and Beyond
The actress complained about the challenges she faced during the production. She mentioned being bullied by Slovak and Czech crews. Reflecting on her childhood, Alexandra admitted her fear of Slovak environments due to her Hungarian heritage. “It’s as if I had brought the European Film Prize to Slovakia, that’s how their behavior stems from it.” She also lamented the lack of calls for Hungarian talent in her home country.
Industry Support and Controversy
Despite being a predominantly Slovak production, contributors from Czech Republic and Hungary worked on the film. The National Film Institute of Slovakia initially supported the film in 2021 but later withdrew their support. The Mol Foundation subsequently funded post-production. Alexandra professed her confusion, suggesting the existence of a list among her and her husband. “It’s as if Slovaks made a film for Hungarians, but they didn’t get funding from Hungary.” The actor further critiqued Viktor Orbán’s statement about films being made well without state funding, pointing out the opening of the new National Film Institute complex in Fot with his speech suggesting he would not give money to anyone.
Making a Stand
Alexandra believes actors can accept state-funded films as they derive from taxpayers’ money. However, she and her husband refuse roles in state-subsidized productions due to their political stances. Resenting her involvement in a significant event at the Fot Film Studios opening, Alexandra expressed her disagreement with the quality degradation of theaters in Hungary. “How can you not explain to yourselves that you are not willing to even watch me come on the stage in front of Orban Viktor while they are downgrading theaters?” she provocatively inquired.
Hope for the Future
Alexandra expressed her hope for success in future Hungarian films and the anticipated reception of the highly anticipated film The Black Point, which deals with controversial issues. She voiced her desire not to have to explain to her children why they cannot study in Hungary.
(Photo Credit: Borbély Alexandra, October 28, 2019. Photo: Kaszás Tamás / Velvet)
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