‘The Second Meeting’
‘The Second Meeting’ Documentary is a true story of humanity, love, and peace. In March 1999, news went around the world in a matter of seconds: an invisible American Stealth F-117A Night Hawk was shot down not far from Belgrade. There were two protagonists of the event: American pilot Lt. Colonel, Dale Zelko, and Serbian SAM missile commander, Colonel Zoltan Dani, who shot him down. Their first meeting was on radar—Twelve years later, with the help of filmmaker Zeljko Mirkovic, they decided to meet again. Having resisted manipulation by the media and political exploitation, they steered their own course toward a lasting friendship of shared values and love of family. One small step for two men–one giant leap for mankind.
“Leading up to my “second meeting” with the Man Who Shot Me Down, and anticipated experience visiting and sharing with his family and fellow Countrymen, I was intensely excited with restless enthusiasm and glad anticipation. I was also filled with strong anxiety and reluctance as I was uncertain how I would ultimately be received in this Country I had participated in warring against only 12 years before. After all, I had not been invited the first time and I was dropping bombs–and they were shooting missiles.” Dale Zelko- US pilot
“Essentially, freedom is about having a choice, i.e., having several options, or even about having a new beginning if it’s possible. ‘The second meeting’ is exactly that — a new beginning. In this way we want to send a message to humanity that it is better to value all those values of life that contain messages of hope and tolerance between people, with mutual regard as much as it is possible.” Zoltan Dani- Serbian rocket Colonel-
‘The Second Meeting’ documentary was nominated for Feature Documentary Oscars 2014.
This film has won many international awards. It has had successful screenings in US cinemas in New York City and Los Angeles. ’The Second Meeting’ is screened with debates after screenings in US Congress Library, Washington DC, United Nations – New York City,
Columbia University- NYC, Harvard University and has screened in United Nations and US Congress cinema theaters.
“Time heals all wounds” – British Daily Mail
“A remarkable friendship…sends a message of peace and tolerance” – BBC UK
“…humanity outweighs the absurdity of war” – France’s Courrier International
“Friendship can save the world”- Italy’s Giornalettismo
Dr. Zeljko Mirkovic is awarded documentary director and producer with 106 international awards and holds a PhD in documentary field. He is Associate Research Professor at University of Connecticut and the owner and CEO of Optimistic film.