by FilmInk Staff
POLISH FILM FESTIVAL OPENS 17 OCTOBER 2025 AT CINEMA NOVA
The Polish Film Festival arrives in Melbourne for the very first time at Cinema Nova from 17–30 October. Presented by Schnitz, the event brings audiences an exciting showcase of contemporary Polish cinema.
Now in its 11th year, the Polish Film Festival expands from its successful editions in Sydney and Perth to Melbourne, offering a vibrant celebration of Polish film, culture, and heritage. Over two weeks, Melbourne audiences will enjoy a diverse program spanning heartfelt dramas, witty comedies, tender romances, and a breathtaking award-winning animation inspired by a Nobel Prize-winning novel.
The Opening Night Gala on Friday 17 October will feature the Victorian premiere of OFF WE GO! (Dalej Jazda) – a heartwarming intergenerational road comedy about love, courage, and living life to the fullest at any age. Guests will enjoy signature treats by Schnitz, a company deeply rooted in Polish heritage and passion for authentic home-style cooking, alongside a complimentary glass of wine — the perfect way to begin this cinematic journey.
Festival Director Magdalena Ambrozkiewicz said:
“We are delighted to launch the Polish Film Festival in Melbourne. Our program offers a unique window into Poland’s culture, history, and spirit, while also reflecting the universal stories that connect us all. We can’t wait to share Polish films with Melbourne audiences and begin what we hope will become a long tradition here.”
“For us, Schnitz has always been about more than schnitzels, it’s about sharing culture, history, and family values. That’s why being part of the Polish Film Festival in Melbourne is so close to our hearts.” said Andrew Dyduk, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Schnitz.
The 2025 selection also includes:
MINGHUN I drama I 2024 I Poland
A moving cross-cultural drama starring acclaimed Polish actor Marcin Dorociński (The Queen’s Gambit, Mission Impossible – Dead Reckoning). Blending quiet humour, emotional depth, and cultural insight, the film journeys through love, loss, and the bonds that transcend borders — and even death. more
THE PEASANTS I drama, animation I 2023 I Poland, Serbia, Lithuania
From the creators of the Oscar, Golden Globe, and BAFTA-nominated Loving Vincent comes a visually stunning adaptation of the Nobel Prize-winning novel The Peasants — a compelling blend of romance, tragedy, and folklore that brings Reymont’s epic tale to life through hand painted oil animation. more
THE CROSSROADS I drama I 2025 I Poland
A contemporary drama steeped in the moral complexity and subtle intensity of Krzysztof Kieślowski — the iconic master of Polish cinema. Winner of the Young FIPRESCI Award — Warsaw International Film Festival 2025. more
BEAUTIFUL! I comedy I 2025 I Poland
A smart and deeply relatable comedy-drama about six women at life’s crossroads, offering a heartfelt exploration of identity and self-worth in a world full of unrealistic expectations. more
PHOTOSENSITIVE I romance I 2025 I Poland
An unconventional love story that invites viewers to see the world through a different lens. more
SEASONS I comedy, drama I 2024 I Poland
A witty and masterfully crafted exploration of love, ego, and the fragile architecture of marriage, set against the backdrop of the eccentric world of theatre. more
VINCI 2 I CLOSING NIGHT I comedy I 2025 I Poland
From the mastermind behind cult classics Vabank, Sexmission, and Kiler, this highly anticipated legacy sequel to Juliusz Machulski’s smash hit Vinci features an all-star cast and brings back his signature blend of humour, suspense, and clever twists. more
Dedicated to celebrating Polish film, culture, and heritage, the festival offers cinephiles and culture lovers a rare opportunity to explore stories and perspectives seldom seen on Australian screens. Showcasing the very best of contemporary Polish cinema, the program has something for everyone.
All films screen with English subtitles.
Tickets are now on sale and the full program is available at www.polishfilmfestival.org
To stay up to date with Polish FF news follow us on Facebook @PolishFilmFestivalMelbourne, Instagram @pff_perth_sydney_melbourne and Subscribe to our mailing list.
The Polish Film Festival in Melbourne is held under the honorary patronage of the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Sydney as well as the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Canberra and is made possible through the generous support of our partners and sponsors. We gratefully acknowledge Schnitz as the Presenting Sponsor of the festival, as well as the valued support of all our partners. Full list of partners and sponsors is available on festival website.
