WALESA. MAN OF HOPE Directed by Andrzej Wajda in Chicago

The 17-day event is the most extensive showcase of Polish film outside of Poland and one of the oldest and largest annual film presentations in Chicago.The 17-day event is the most extensive showcase of Polish film outside of Poland and one of the oldest and largest annual film presentations in Chicago.

The movie by 87-year old Oscar winning director premiered at the Venice International FF where it received a standing ovation. The master of Polish cinema considers the subject most difficult in his 55-year artistic career. I admired Walesa from the very first moment I met him – Wajda says - during the talks between “Solidarity” and the Government Committee. This movie will reflect all that. The movie is addressed to everyone, but I’d especially like to reach the younger audience, as Lech is a good example of how they should participate in our political life.

The filmmaker is asking a question, how it was possible for one person to change the world so dramatically. Wajda, intruding into a private, even intimate sphere of his protagonist, attempts to capture the phenomenon of this incredible metamorphosis: from a simple worker into a charismatic leader. This controversial persona, not without flaws, inspired millions to set realize their dreams of freedom, setting the stage for transformations beyond anyone’s imagination at the time. The plot is set from the 1970 strike and ends in 1989 with the triumph of „Solidarity” and the downfall of the Communism regime in Poland. Wajda deftly uses newsreels and archive footage alongside actors and historical recreation to paint social and political reality of the times.

Robert Wieckiewicz, well known to the Chicago audiences, in a leading role is simply extraordinary in his imitation of Walesa’s expressions and physical gestures, not to mention his unbelievable resemblance thanks to a marvelous work of make-up designer Waldemar Pokromski. Agnieszka Grochowska plays Danuta Walesa. The script was made by Polish writer Janusz Glowacki. Michal Kwiecinski of Akson Film Studio produced the film.

WALESA. MAN OF HOPE is a Polish submission to the Academy award in a foreign language category this year.

The internationally-acclaimed band ALIZMA will appear in a mini-concert during the Opening Night Gala. The most talented and beautiful triplets – Aleksandra, Izabela and Monika Okapiec – play violin and sing their own works. Born in Poland and musically educated in the United States, they have already performed worldwide, mesmerizing audiences with their virtuosity and incredible charm.

The Opening Night Gala program will also include introduction of the official guests of the 25th PFFA as well as an announcement of special Wings award, presented by the festival to the Polish film artists for their achievements in the art of film and promoting Poland beyond the family country.

Due to a limited seating capacity in the movie theatres, the Opening Night Gala will be held in two theatres, starting at 7:00 PM. and 8:00 PM.
Muvico Rosemont 18 is located at 9701 Bryn Mawr Ave. by River Rd. South exit from I-90. The theatre has ample parking, complimentary with parking ticket validation. The most elegant cinema centre offers fine dining in Bogart’s Bar and Grill.

The Opening Night Gala patrons will receive festival memorabilia, Polish art books and dvds.

Invitations and tickets can be purchased online @ www.pffamerica.com and over a phone at 773-486-9612 with any major credit card. The seats are numbered.

The 25th PFFA major sponsors are: Polish Film Institute, Adam Mickiewicz Institute, Star-Tech Glass, BMO Harris Bank, State Farm Insurance, Muvico Theatres.

Main media sponsor is itvn.

For more information, please call 773-486-9612.