Andrzej Wajda: Portraits of History and Humanity

‘Wajda had a long, creative career and left behind an extraordinary legacy. His works were inspiring around the world.’
– Martin Scorsese

Andrzej Wajda was the recipient of every major international film honour, including the Palme d’Or and Academy Award. His cinema is located within the fabric of Polish history and society, reflecting how major historical events shape an individual and a nation, and initiating debates about national identity. He was equally committed to portraying complex human relationships, moral responsibility and fortitude – often under duress – as he was in exploring the role of art and artists in revealing suppressed truths. Setting many films around sensitive national moments, his cinema sought a powerful visual language and remains both relevant and influential. To mark the centenary of Wajda’s birth and 10 years since his passing, we celebrate this visionary filmmaker, who was not only an important storyteller of Polish culture and history, but also of the human condition.

Aga Baranowska, season curator

With thanks to

Marlena Łukasiak, Michał Oleszczyk, Jędrzej Sabliński. Presented with the ICA and Ciné Lumière, who will also be hosting screenings of Wajda’s works in February and March.