Films 2023

All films will be screened at AFS Cinema and will have English subtitles (even if some trailers below do not).
Audio in all films is in Polish, unless indicated otherwise.

FEATURE FILMS

BEING UNLUCKY IS NOT A SIN / PECH TO NIE GRZECH

Screening time: Thursday, Nov. 2 at 7:00 pm

1h 22 min I Romantic Comedy I 2018

Director: Ryszard Zatorski
Screenplay: Ryszard Zatorski, Joanna Wilczewska
Cinematography: Tomasz Dobrowolski
Editing: Zbigniew Nickinski
Music: Mirosław Makowski
Cast: Maria Dębska, Mikołaj Roznerski, Krzysztof Czeczot

Synopsis: Natalia is a successful businesswoman who's always prided herself on her independence. However, her resilience is tested when she stumbles upon a bet made by her closest business partner, Piotr, and his fiancée, Weronika. They wagered she couldn't find true love within three months. Determined to prove them wrong, Natalia embarks on a quest for romance. This leads her into the arms of Adam, a charming individual from the tech world. Initially, their relationship is a mere act to win the bet, but genuine emotions soon begin to bloom. As the days unfold, the trio's dynamics change; with Piotr's impending wedding, old bonds are examined, and the line between friendship and love becomes increasingly blurred.

Balancing first-world dilemmas and the intricacies of the heart, the film offers light-hearted entertainment, safe for viewers of all ages, and a glimpse into the lives of young professionals navigating both love and competition.

Awards & Nominations:
Received 2 awards and nominated for 9 others.

FEAST OF FIRE / ŚWIĘTO OGNIA

Screening time: Friday, Nov. 3 at 7:30 pm

1h 34 min I Drama I 2023

Director:  Kinga Dębska
Screenplay:  Kinga Dębska
Cinematography:  Witold Plóciennik
Editing: Jarosław Kaminski
Music:  Bartosz Gruchala
Cast: Paulina Pytlak, Joanna Drabik, Tomasz Sapryk

Synopsis:
In the poignant drama "FEAST OF FIRE (ŚWIĘTO OGNIA)," the entwined lives of two sisters unveil a narrative filled with aspiration, restraint, and the pursuit of self-acceptance. Anastazja, a vibrant 20-year-old with a love for comics and hot chocolate, observes the world from the vantage of her wheelchair, with the added challenge of being nonverbal. Her relentless optimism stands in stark contrast to her sister, Łucja, a promising ballet prodigy, who grapples with her disciplined body as both a source of liberation and constraint. As each navigates their individual struggles, their father finds refuge in places where he feels most alive. The introduction of their spirited neighbor, Józefina, propels the family into a whirlwind of revelations, prompting them to unearth a long-buried family secret.

"ŚWIĘTO OGNIA" seamlessly intertwines tales of individual battles and hope, crafting a story that's both deeply personal and universally resonant. Adapted from Jakub Małecki’s novel, the film stands as a touching testament to the human spirit's indomitable will, encapsulating the fortitude of two sisters as they confront life's intricate challenges.

Awards & Nominations:
2023 Nominee Golden Lions - Best Film

SPLINTER / ZADRA

Screening time: Saturday, Nov. 4 at 2:00 pm

1h 28 min I Drama I 2022

Director: Grzegorz Mołda
Screenplay: Monika Powalisz
Cinematography: Anna Rzepka
Editing: Piasek & Wójcik
Music: Przemysław Jankowiak
Cast: Magdalena Wieczorek, Jakub Gierszal, Ignacy Liss

Synopsis:
In the gritty streets of an underprivileged neighborhood, eighteen-year-old Sandra "Zadra" Kwiecik fights daily battles. Living in a cramped apartment with her mother and younger brother, Witek, she hustles as a waitress, their main financial pillar. However, when night falls and the spotlight hits, Zadra channels the raw energy of her challenging environment, morphing into a rap force with unparalleled charisma. Immersed in the aggressive, male-dominated rap scene, her path to acclaim is strewn with obstacles. Her lyrics, a piercing reflection of her lived experiences and ongoing struggles, strike a chord with listeners. But everything intensifies when she encounters Motyl, the reigning rap kingpin of Poland. Suddenly, her dream-chasing world melds with a tumultuous love, pulling her into a whirlwind of intoxicating highs and perilous depths. Zadra's tale is one of fierce ambition, turbulent love, and the relentless chase of dreams in a backdrop that's constantly trying to pull her down..

Awards & Nominations:
Nominated for 2 awards.

THE SAINT / śWIĘTY

Screening time: Saturday, Nov. 4 at 3:45 pm

1h 45 min I Historical Crime I 2023

Director: Sebastian Buttny
Screenplay: Sebastian Buttny
Cinematography: Łukasz Gutt
Editing: Witold Chomiński
Music: Bence Bobák
Cast: Dobromir Dymecki, Lena Góra, Laura Ozanna, Ozi Jarczewska, Mateusz Kościukiewicz, Leszek Lichota, Michał Włodarczyk

Synopsis: Set against the turbulent backdrop of 1980s Poland, "THE SAINT (ŚWIĘTY)" by director Sebastian Buttny weaves a suspenseful tale of crime, politics, and faith. Lieutenant Andrzej Baran of the Citizens' Militia finds himself thrust into the spotlight when the revered silver sculpture of Saint Adalbert disappears from the Gniezno Cathedral, marking one of the most notorious thefts in communist Poland. The weight of the case is magnified by the recent politically-charged murder of priest Jerzy Popiełuszko, rendering the already fragile balance between church and state even more precarious.

When the chief of police entrusts the enigmatic case to the green yet driven Baran, initial breakthroughs in the investigation arrive unexpectedly quickly, almost too conveniently. Dissatisfied with the official narrative, Baran embarks on a parallel investigation of his own. Delving deeper into the heart of the mystery, he unravels a web that suggests the crime isn't merely an act of theft but a deeply political provocation with implications far beyond the missing artifact.

"THE SAINT" masterfully intertwines historical events with gripping fiction, painting a vivid picture of a nation grappling with its identity amidst political unrest.

Awards:
2023 Nominee Golden Lions - Best Film

IF I WERE YOU / NA TWOIM MIEJSCU

Screening time: Saturday, Nov. 4 at 6:00 pm

1h 43 min I Comedy I 2023

Director: Antonio Galdamez Munoz
Screenplay: Łukasz Światowiec, Anna Bielak
Cinematography: Tomasz Madejski
Editing: Bartosz Karczynski
Music: Łukasz Targosz
Cast: Paulina Gałązka, Miron Jagniewski, Oliwer Grzegorzewski

Synopsis:
In the heartwarming and hilarious comedy "NA TWOIM MIEJSCU (IF I WERE YOU),” we dive into the intricacies of marital life, identity, and the age-old question: what's it truly like to walk in someone else's shoes? Kasia and Krzysiek, an average couple entangled in the everyday struggles of parenthood, find themselves constantly at odds. While Krzysiek is engrossed in his demanding corporate job, Kasia grapples with the dual challenges of managing a kindergarten job and caring for their home and son, often sidelining her own needs.

Their mounting disagreements take an unexpected turn when they awaken to discover they've inexplicably switched bodies. Thrust into each other's lives, the couple gets a firsthand, eye-opening experience of the challenges and quirks that define their partner's daily existence. Amidst the comedy of errors that ensue, they uncover deeper insights into their relationship, gaining a newfound appreciation for the significance of communication and understanding.

“NA TWOIM MIĘJSCU" humorously sheds light on the complexities of love and relationships, reminding us that while we all play roles in life, true understanding arises from seeing the world through another's eyes.

Awards:
2023 Nominee Grand Jantar (Best Feature Debut)

THE BREACH / WYRWA

Screening time: Saturday, Nov. 4 at 8:00 pm

1h 35m I Psychological Thriller I 2023

Director: Bartosz Konopka
Screenplay: Marcin Ciaston, Wojciech Chmielarz
Cinematography: Piotr Niemyjski
Editing: Andrzej Dąbrowski
Music: Marcin Macuk
Cast: Tomasz Kot, Grzegorz Damiecki, Karolina Gruszka

Synopsis: In Bartosz Konopka’s gripping drama-thriller "THE BREACH (WYRWA)," Maciek's life unravels following a perplexing car accident that claims the life of his wife, Janina. Although it appears Janina may have taken her own life, Maciek is baffled by the accident's location near Mrągowo, especially when she had told him she was heading to Kraków for business. As doubt gnaws at him, Maciek embarks on a relentless quest for answers. His investigation leads him to a charismatic actor, Wojnar, who he believes might have been involved with Janina. As the layers of mystery unfold, Maciek faces unsettling revelations, questioning how well he truly knew the woman he loved. Based on Wojciech Chmielarz's bestselling novel, Konopka masterfully weaves elements of psychological drama and the intricacies of a thriller, punctuated by rare nods to the "buddy film" genre. At its core, "THE BREACH" delves deep into the vulnerabilities of masculinity, the challenges of communication, and the quest to reconstruct one's sense of reality.

Awards & Nominations:
Nominated for 4 awards.

TIME FOR SOME SUMMER / cZAS NA POGODĘ

Screening time: Saturday, Nov. 4 at 10:30 pm

1h 19 min I Drama I 2022

Director: Jacek Raginis-Królikiewicz
Screenplay: Zbigniew Moskal, Jacek Raginis-Królikiewicz
Cinematography: Mike Stern Sterzynski
Editing: Szymon Sabaranski
Music: Antoni Wojnar
Cast: Ewa Konstancja Bułhak, Łukasz Lewandowski, Barbara Zgorzalewicz-Fryźlewicz, Zbigniew Moskal, Rafał Porzeziński

Synopsis:
In the evocative drama "FOR BETTER WEATHER (CZAS NA POGODĘ)," life's relentless challenges push two souls to the brink, only to find solace in the most unexpected of places. Fifty-year-old Adam embodies life's relentless string of disappointments: personal failures, the recent death of his aunt, and the inherited apartment that's ruined by a flood. His attempts to confront the upstairs neighbor responsible introduce him to Celina, a once-celebrated singer now grappling with alcoholism and an existential crisis. Their turbulent interaction - a blend of resentment, allure, closeness, and violence - gradually hints at a deeper, mutual affection. Despite his optimism for Celina's redemption, she remains ensnared by her painful past, questioning whether it's easier to surrender than to fight for a fresh start.

Directed by the acclaimed Jacek Raginis-Królikiewicz, "FOR BETTER WEATHER" has stormed the international film scene, amassing awards and praise. A raw exploration of Adam and Celina's interwoven fates, this film is a poignant testament to redemption, resilience, and the surprising power of unexpected bonds.

THE PROPHET / PROROK

Screening time: Sunday, Nov. 5 at 2:30 pm

2h 20 min I Biography, Drama, History I 2022

Director: Michał Konrad
Screenplay: Katarzyna Bogucka, Joanna Dudek, Karolina Slyk 
Cinematography: Mateusz Pastewka
Editing: Paweł Witecki
Music: Bartosz Chajdecki
Cast: Sławomir Grzymkowski, Adam Ferency, Marcin Tronski

Synopsis:
In the compelling biographical drama “THE PROPHET (PROROK),” the indomitable spirit of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński comes to life. Navigating the turbulent waters of political unrest, Wyszyński emerges as an unyielding leader, fearlessly confronting the communist forces determined to cripple the Church. But beyond his resistance, he's a visionary, foreseeing the rise of Karol Wojtyła, who would later become Pope John Paul II, instrumental in the downfall of communism in Europe. Wyszyński's steadfast faith and his advocacy for love, freedom, and human dignity set the stage not just for the ascendancy of a Pope but also for a spiritual renaissance in Poland and Eastern Europe. Directed by Michał Konrad, “PROPHET” is a poignant exploration of courage, foresight, and the transformative power of unwavering faith amidst adversity.

THE PILECKI REPORT / RAPORT PILECKIEGO

Screening time: Sunday, Nov. 5 at 7:15 pm

1h 58 min I Biography, Drama, History I 2023

Director: Krzysztof Łukaszewicz
Screenplay: Krzysztof Łukaszewicz
Cinematography: Arkadiusz Tomiak
Editing: Marcin Kot-Bastkowski
Music: Michał Lorenc
Cast: Przemysław Wyszyński, Paulina Chapko, Paweł Paprocki

Synopsis:
The film depicts the incredible story of Witold Pilecki. A distinguished army officer, Pilecki joined the Polish resistance in the early days of the Second World War, volunteering to infiltrate and report on the Nazi atrocities inside the Auschwitz concentration camp. Allowing himself to be captured and sent to the camp, he organized a resistance network among the prisoners and smuggled intelligence out. Pilecki’s intelligence, provided to the Allied governments, was one of the first eyewitness accounts of the Holocaust.

The film focuses on Pilecki’s heroic actions against Nazi occupation but also shines a light on his dramatic escape, participation in the Warsaw Uprising, and unyielding resistance after Poland fell under Soviet dominion. By 1948, the communist regime in Poland subjected him to unspeakable torment, and he was nearly written out of history. Now, he stands as a beacon of Polish heroism—a symbol of courage, freedom, and unwavering solidarity with the oppressed.

Awards & Nominations:
Nominated for 4 awards.

DOCUMENTARIES

IN THE NAME OF THE HIGHEST VALUES / W IMIĘ NAJWYŻSZYCH WARTOŚCI

Screening time: Thursday, Nov. 2 at 9:15 pm

50 min I Documentary I 2022

Director:  Piotr Augustynek, Piotr Piecha
Screenplay:  Radosława Ridan
Cinematography:  Piotr Augustynek
Editing: Krzysztof Ridan
Music:  Jan Oberbek and Bogusława Oberbek
Cast: Danuta Boba, Bogumiła Boba, Bolesława Habdank-Wojewódzka, Bodgan Boba, Bogusław Boba, Bożena Boba-Dyga, Julia Dyga, Joanna Tesarczyk, Piotr Tesarczyk, Karol Tesarczyk, Piotr Piecha, Anna Augustynek

Synopsis:
Spanning from 1952 to 1981 in southern Poland, this documentary unveils the remarkable resistance of the Boba family against an oppressive communist regime. When Danuta and Bartłomiej Boba discerned the communist school's attempts at indoctrination, they made the brave decision not to enroll their children. This act of defiance drew the wrath of the authorities, resulting in a 1955 Stalinist court verdict that stripped the Bobas of their parental rights and sought to send their children to orphanages. Yet, the family's valiant struggle ensured the verdict remained unexecuted. Through the lens of the Boba family's ordeal, the film sheds light on Poland's enduring quest to preserve its Christian and national identity against overwhelming odds.

JULIAN STANCZAK: TO CATCH THE LIGHT / JULIAN STAŃCZAK: ZŁAPAĆ ŚWIATŁO

Screening time: Friday, Nov. 3 at 10:00 pm. Language: Polish & English

60 min I Documentary I 2023

Director: Tomasz Magierski
Animations: Rafał Borowy
Cinematography: Maciej Magowski
Editing: Maciej Magowski
Music: Jarosław Lublin

Synopsis:
Painter Julian Stańczak (1928-2017), a revered figure at the Cleveland Institute of Art, was an abstract art visionary. His 1964 showcase, “Optical Paintings” at NYC’s Martha Jackson Gallery, led Time magazine to introduce the term “Op Art.” Born in Poland on the eve of WWII, Stańczak's journey took him from Poland to Siberia, Iran, Uganda, the UK, and ultimately to the U.S. Tragedy struck in a Soviet gulag when he lost function in his right arm, compelling him to master painting with his left. This documentary, crafted over eight years, melds archival materials and rare interviews, painting an intimate portrait of Stańczak’s resilient spirit, his artistic process, and his deep connection to color.

http://www.julianstanczak.com/index.php

BURNING QUESTIONS

Screening time: Sunday, Nov. 5 at 5:15 pm. Language: English & Polish

57min I Documentary I 1999

Director: Mishael Porembski
Editing: Scott Thigpen
Cast: Jan Porembski, Mishael Porembski

Synopsis:
In the poignant documentary "BURNING QUESTIONS," director Mishael Porembski embarks on a deeply personal journey into a lesser-explored chapter of the Holocaust: the sufferings endured by Poland's Catholic citizens under Nazi rule. As an American-born daughter, Porembski seeks to understand her Polish father's harrowing experiences as a Catholic concentration camp survivor. This intimate exploration takes them both back to his homeland, unearthing memories and reconciling with a painful past. The film offers an introspective look into a familial bond, set against the backdrop of a rarely studied chapter of Nazi atrocities. This award-winning documentary combines the emotional depth of a home movie with the significance of historical introspection.

Awards:

Southeastern Emmy for Best Documentary

1999 Winner Southeastern Media Award - Atlanta Film Festival

1999 Winner Jury Award - Atlantic City Film Festival - Special Achievement - Documentary

1999 Winner Judges Award - Savannah Film Festival

IRENA’S VOW - (Screened at the Austin Jewish Film Festival at Dell Jewish Community Center)

Screening time: Saturday, Nov. 11 at 8:00 pm. Language: English

120 Minutes I Feature Film I 2023

Director: Louise Archambault
Cast: Sophie Nélisse, Dougray Scott, Andrzej Seweryn