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DocTalk The secret of Poland’s advance

Poland's advance among the countries of the former Soviet bloc can be explained by a combination of economic, political, and social factors. Poland has managed to implement solid reforms and capitalizing on its strategic advantages and available resources, contributing to impressive economic and social development after the fall of communism. Here some of the key factors behind this progress: rapid implementation of economic and political reforms, integration into Western structures such as the EU and NATO, and the utilization of an educated workforce and a strategic geographic position. Political stability, access to EU funds, and foreign investments were also decisive factors in its success.

Poland's advance among the countries of the former Soviet bloc can be explained by a combination of economic, political, and social factors. Poland has managed to implement solid reforms and capitalizing on its strategic advantages and available resources, contributing to impressive economic and social development after the fall of communism. Here some of the key factors behind this progress: rapid implementation of economic and political reforms, integration into Western structures such as the EU and NATO, and the utilization of an educated workforce and a strategic geographic position. Political stability, access to EU funds, and foreign investments were also decisive factors in its success.


The Peasants, directed by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman. Set in 19th-century Poland, the film tells the story of Jagna, a 19-year-old woman forced to marry old Boryna, while her true love is his son, Antek. Her defiance of society’s norms triggers a series of dramatic events that threaten to disrupt the peace of the village. With its stunning oil-painted imagery and emotional intensity, the film offers a powerful and unforgettable cinematic experience.


Corpus Christi, directed by Jan Komasa, follows the story of Daniel, a young ex-convict who pretends to be a priest in a small Polish village, claiming to be sent by the Church. Although he has no theological training, Daniel assumes this identity, driven by a deep spiritual calling he discovered in prison. The film explores not only the social tensions in a rural community marked by collective tragedy but also the protagonist's internal struggle between who he is and who he wants to become. Combining social realism with a deeply symbolic narrative, the director shapes a complex character that challenges both the institution of the Church and society's perceptions of forgiveness and redemption.


Forest by Lidia Duda. Asia and Marek live with their three children in a house in the middle of the Białowieża Forest, on Poland's eastern border. They try to lead a peaceful life and raise their children surrounded by nature, but at night, unease sets in. Voices and noises echo from the darkness of the forest, reverberating with hidden tragedies. With a strong emotional charge, yet subtly filtered through the routine of family life, the film intelligently and sensitively raises the issue of one of Europe's most severe humanitarian crises.

The dialogue seeks to shed light on lesser-known aspects of Polish society that have contributed to its unique path. The films selected for the "Poland on CINE-spotlight" program open up and present the vibrant scene of contemporary Polish society: the border between Poland and Belarus has become a frontline for migration from the East (Forest byLidia Duda), the role of the Catholic Church in the daily lives of young people in rural communities and how it succeeds or fails (Corpus Christi by Jan Komasa), or the formative mindset, or where did Polish society begin, the Eastern European rural world of the early 20th century? (The Peasants by Dorota Kobiela and Hugh Welchman).


*The talk will take place in romanian language with invited experts, filmmakers, moderator and streamed online.


*** This event is part of POLAND-ROMANIA Cultural Season 2024-2025 /

The POLAND-ROMANIA Cultural Season 2024-2025 is organised by the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage and the Adam Mickiewicz Institute, with the support of the Polish Institute in Bucharest, the Romanian Ministry of Culture and the Romanian Cultural Institute.