The film depicts the incredible story of Witold Pilecki. A distinguished army officer, Pilecki joined the Polish resistance in the early days of the Second World War, volunteering to infiltrate and report on the Nazi atrocities inside the Auschwitz concentration camp. Allowing himself to be captured and sent to the camp, he organized a resistance network among the prisoners and smuggled intelligence out. Pilecki’s intelligence, provided to the Allied governments, was one of the first eyewitness accounts of the Holocaust.

The film focuses on Pilecki’s heroic actions against Nazi occupation but also shines a light on his dramatic escape, participation in the Warsaw Uprising, and unyielding resistance after Poland fell under Soviet dominion. By 1948, the communist regime in Poland subjected him to unspeakable torment, and he was nearly written out of history. Now, he stands as a beacon of Polish heroism—a symbol of courage, freedom, and unwavering solidarity with the oppressed.

Festival badges are available to purchase here.

ABOUT THE AUSTIN POLISH FILM FESTIVAL

The Austin Polish Film Festival (APFF) returns for its 18th year, solidifying its role as a premiere showcase of Polish cinematic talent. Since its launch in 2005, APFF has presented over 450 films, welcomed celebrated Polish filmmakers of both national and international acclaim, and firmly established itself within Austin’s bustling film landscape.

This year boasts a curated lineup, featuring award-winning dramas, insightful documentaries, and imaginative animations. One of the festival’s crown jewels is Kinga Debska’s “Fire Festival” (“Święto ognia”), a stirring adaptation of Jakub Małecki’s novel. Scheduled for November 3rd, audiences will be treated to an intimate Q&A session with lead actors Kinga Preis and Tomasz Sapryk post-screening.

Enhancing the cinematic experience, APFF collaborates with Dot Dot Dot Connect, a leading experiential art curator. This partnership brings forth an exclusive art exhibit celebrating the intricate works of acclaimed Polish poster artist, Patrycja Longawa.

Film enthusiasts will have the opportunity to cast their votes, leading to the much-anticipated Audience Award for the festival’s standout film. Keep an eye on www.austinpolishfilm.com for more details.

THIS SCREENING IS A COMMUNITY EVENT

As a nonprofit, it’s part of AFS’s mission to include and empower other local organizations, and Community Events at AFS Cinema are an invitation for audiences to get to know our partners and to help us shine a spotlight on their impactful work.