The criteria for selecting the films to be screened, proposed by the meeting’s facilitator, Grażyna Ferensowicz, sparked controversy. She advocated exploring contemporary cinema, with films made over the last five years, clearly divided into those produced before September 11 and those made after that date.
This option did not convince those interested in learning about the history of cinema and watching works that are already well known and included in the canon of cinematic masterpieces. There were also suggestions that only films completely unknown to the wider public should be presented, such as contemporary works of Iranian cinema.
Ultimately, the decision was made to show new films that have not been screened in Polish cinemas, often productions by independent filmmakers. Above all, Grażyna Ferensowicz wishes to “emphasize the magic of cinema—unusual, simple, complicated, explained and unspoken stories.” Films presented and awarded at major international festivals will also be considered.
Members of the Discussion Film Club will meet twice a month. The first meeting will take place on November 18 at 7:00 p.m. Anyone may, of course, attend the film screening. The organizers assure attendees that participation in the discussion will not be mandatory. We will publish the detailed program for this and subsequent screenings soon on Boleslawiec.org.