Since Ukraine  became an independent country Odessa has transformed itself into a vibrant European resort full of cafes, night life and young people. The city was ripe for a major cultural event, and  the first Odessa Film Festival last year was a huge success.  Every film that was exhibited had a full house, so for its second edition, the bet was increased. This year, from July 15 to 23, more than 100 films from 40 countries were received by an enthusiastic audience, and 14 of the films were in competition. A jury that included Maria de Medeiros and Jerzy Stuhr awarded the Golden Duke to “Tomboy” in a grand closing night at the Opera House, one of the finest music palaces in the world. Hollywood Foreign Press member  Gabriel Lerman presented the president of the festival,Viktoria Tigipko, with a plaque from the HPFA and explained to the full house how the HFPA helps film education and the restoration of classics through its extensive philanthropic work.