The KFDF Youth and Film Festival lauded the artistry and expertise expressed in the films of students and graduates of the Kieślowski Film School. Here are brief descriptions of the winners:

FEATURE FILM DEBUTS COMPETITION

Wielki Jantar 2023 for a Full-Length Feature Debut went to Damian Kocur for his film "Bread and Salt." The jury praised the film for portraying a shocking image of contemporary Poland through its interpretation of brutality combined with its sensitivity to beauty.

Honorable Mention for a Feature Film went to "Roving Woman" by Michał Chmielewski. According to the jury, it is a modest road movie that talks about learning to be yourself and becoming free and independent.

SHORT FILM DEBUTS COMPETITION

Stanisław Cuske won the Jantar 2023 for Cinematography for a Short Film for his work in "Postcards from the Verge," directed by Natalia Koniarz. The jury praised Cuske for his poetic frames taken in an efficient manner in extreme conditions. "Postcards from the Verge" also won the Jantar 2023 for Short Documentary. The Jury noted the honesty and multilayered nature of the story and its focus on a unique relationship whose strength resides within the extreme challenges experienced on the edge of the world.

NON-STATUTORY AWARDS

The Journalists' Award for Full-Length Feature Film went to Michał Chmielewski, the director of "Roving Woman."

The Jury commended the story's focus on overcoming loneliness. They highlighted that the story allows its protagonist to be fragile. Moreover, they noted that it combines American road cinema with European sensibility.

We are delighted about the achievements of our students and graduates, and we would like to congratulate them wholeheartedly.

A list of all the winners of the 42nd edition of the festival is available at this link.