Poland Travel [#41] - Film festivals in Poland - which ones are worth visiting?

Not only Cannes, San Sebastián, and Sundance. Poland can also boast its own film festivals. Which cities are worth visiting for them?

Gdynia - the city of film

This is an obvious choice. The Polish Film Festival is the oldest and most prestigious Polish film competition. It is here that the Golden Lions are awarded, and here in summer, the red carpet is rolled out where you can see the most famous stars. The atmosphere of this place and the festival is unique, and Gdynia will also be a great spot for sunbathing during the day. For several years now, Gdynia has also hosted a second festival: Millennium Docs Against Gravity. This, in turn, is a celebration of documentary films. Screenings take place at the Gdynia Film School. The competition attracts more and more viewers each year, solidifying Gdynia's status as the capital of film.

New Horizons International Film Festival

At this festival, held annually in Wrocław, you won’t see Hollywood productions. Here, we can experience experimental cinema, productions from Romania, Iceland, Vietnam, and Colombia. Screenings take place in the Market Square in the Old Town, so in addition to watching wonderful films, we can also feel the atmosphere of Wrocław.

Energa Camerimage – International Film Festival Toruń

No other Polish festival attracts such stars. Over the years, one could meet Quentin Tarantino, Keanu Reeves, Richard Gere, Edward Norton, David Lynch, and many other personalities here. This festival is dedicated to the art of cinematographers. At this festival, besides excellent films, the work of camera operators and the visual aspects of films are primarily recognized.

Other well-known and worth visiting festivals include the Transatlantyk Festival, Two Riversides Film and Art Festival, Film Music Festival, and OffCamera.

Photo and text author: Joanna Choma