The 40th edition of the Warsaw Film Festival (WFF) take place from October 11-20, 2024, marking a significant milestone for one of Poland’s most prestigious cinematic events. What started in 1985 as a small student film showcase founded by Roman Gutek has now evolved into a major international event, attracting filmmakers, directors, and producers from around the world. This year’s edition promises a spectacular program featuring world, European, and Polish premieres that will captivate audiences and industry professionals alike.
Opening day on October 11 features several highly anticipated films that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Among them is “Telepathic Letters,” a thought-provoking exploration of human communication and relationships, and “Through the Years,” a reflective piece on the passage of time and its effects on individuals. Also set to premiere is “Black Hole,” a gripping drama that delves into the complex nature of reality, and “Black Velvet,” an artistic narrative offering a unique storytelling approach.
For documentary lovers, the festival presents “Tokito: 540 Days of a Culinary Maverick,” an extraordinary journey through the world of flavors and cultures, following an eccentric chef. Other notable films include “Shameless,” tackling difficult social issues, and “Black Dog,” which dives deep into the psychological lives of its characters.
The festival also kicks off the prestigious International Competition for the Warsaw Grand Prix, with a top prize of PLN 100,000, funded by the Mayor of Warsaw. This coveted award attracts some of the most important filmmakers from around the globe, providing a platform to showcase the best films of the festival.
Beyond screenings, the Warsaw Film Festival offers a rich array of events, including Q&A sessions with filmmakers, panel discussions, and workshops. The program features a wide selection of films, ranging from narrative features to documentaries and short films, carefully curated to reflect the latest trends and key developments in global cinema. This year’s lineup includes films from exotic corners of the world, offering audiences the chance to discover diverse cultures and perspectives.
For 40 years, WFF has been a key player on the international film festival circuit, offering both seasoned directors and newcomers a chance to present their work to a wide audience. For Warsaw and Poland, the festival serves as a crucial opportunity to promote domestic cinema and enrich the capital’s cultural scene. It has become a staple of the autumn cultural calendar, drawing in an ever-growing number of film enthusiasts.
The 2024 edition promises unforgettable experiences for all who attend. The new festival director, Joanna Szymańska-Szcześniak, and program director, Gustaw Kolanowski, along with the WFF team and the creators and actors of this year’s outstanding productions, invite audiences to the festival venues—Atlantic, Kinoteka, and Iluzjon—where all screenings will take place. The full program is available on the festival’s official website, and tickets can be purchased online or at the festival box offices. With such a diverse selection of films—ranging from dramas to experimental works, comedies, and documentaries—there is truly something for everyone.
The organizers warmly invite all to join this cinematic celebration and take part in the many exciting events accompanying the festival.
