The second edition of the Kosciuszko Foundation Polish Film Festival in Washington, DC, is almost here, and it's bigger than ever!

This year, we’re expanding to six days of captivating cinema, featuring nearly 20 films: 11 feature films, several must-see shorts, and a lineup of special guests from both Polish and American film industries.

From gripping dramas about the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine to heartfelt stories about young artists, environmental battles, struggling marriages, and coping with loss, this festival offers something for everyone. Each film brings its own unique energy, but all share a common thread—an intimate focus on human stories and deep psychological exploration. These films capture the complexity of everyday life, in a way that only Polish cinema can.

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in a dynamic mix of social commentary, personal narratives, and cinematic mastery.

Featured Films:

Check out the full list and film descriptions HERE

1. Clowns, dir. Gabriela Muskała

2. Two Sisters, dir. Łukasz Karwowski

3. People, dir. Maciej Ślesicki

4. Minghun, dir. Jan P. Matuszyński

5. Go Against the Flow, dir. Wiesław Paluch

6. Wet Monday, dir. Justyna Mytnik

7. Simona Kossak, dir. Adrian Paszek

8. White Courage, dir. Marcin Koszałka

9. Sparrow, dir. Tomasz Gąssowski

10. A Girl with a Needle, dir. Magnum von Horn

11. It’s Not My Film, dir. Maria Zbąska

Two Special Events You Can’t Miss:

Opening Night – March 4th, 5:00 PM at the Shakespeare Theatre

We’ll kick off the festival with Clowns, directed by Gabriela Muskała, with a special introduction by prof. Iwona Sadowska from Georgetown University. Joining us for the screening are the film’s director Gabriela Muskała and legendary Polish actor Zbigniew Zamachowski, who composed the film score.

After the film, gala ticket holders, festival pass holders, and VIPs are invited to the Opening Gala.

Enjoy delicious food and wine, mingle with filmmakers and stars, and get a first look at all the films featured throughout the festival.

“Focus on Ukraine” Day – March 5th

This special day will highlight the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine, showcased through two powerful new Polish films:

• 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM Two Sisters (Dwie Siostry), directed by Łukasz Karwowski

• 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM People (Ludzie), directed by Maciej Ślesicki and Filip Hillesland - an introduction by JP Schutte, former U.S. Economic Counselor in Kyiv.

At 8:00 PM, we’ll host a special panel discussion featuring:

• Filip Hillesland, director of People

• Oksana Markarova, Ambassador of Ukraine

• Bogdan Klich, Chargé d'affaires of Poland

• Walter Goetz, Head of Liaison Office at the European Parliament

  Plus, representatives from U.S. Congress and Ukrainian organizations.

  
  

  Moderator: Michał Rutkowski, Regional Director for Human Development (ECA).

March 6th–9th We’ll screen the remaining eight films at Landmark E-Street Cinema

We’re working on confirming some exciting guests, and we'll share more details as soon as we can.

Closing Ceremony & Awards – March 9th

We’ll wrap up the festival with the closing ceremony and awards announcements.

Festival Jury:

• Honorary Patron: Agnieszka Holland

• Jan Komasa

• Liliana Komorowska

• Robert Tutak

• Michał Oleszczyk

Join us for an unforgettable cinematic experience and celebrate the best of Polish filmmaking!