The KF New England Chapter Polish Film Festival

October is celebrated as Polish Heritage Month to honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of Polish-Americans and the Polish community worldwide. It is a time to reflect on the enduring legacy of Poland’s traditions, values, and its significant role in global history, from its fight for independence to its influence in the arts, sciences, and politics.

To celebrate Polish Heritage Month, the Kosciuszko Foundation New England Chapter is proud to present two award-winning films to the public as part of its Polish Film Festival.

Figurant (Strawman) 2023, directed by Robert Gliński.

Sunday, October 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Set in Communist Poland, the black-and-white film is based on true events and tells the unknown story of a surveillance operation whose target was Karol Wojtyla, the future Pope John Paul II. Told from the perspective of a young secret
service officer in charge of the 20-year operation of covertly following the man who would be Pope, it is both an espionage thriller and a tale of the metamorphosis of the secret service officer who will come face-to-face with the tensions of the human condition: faith and doubt, love and mistrust, and the pursuit of truth in a world full of moral ambiguity.

Czerwone Maki (Red Poppies), 2024, directed by Krzysztof Lukaszewicz.

Sunday, November 3 at 2:00 p.m.

It is the first Polish feature film about the famous and victorious Battle of Monte Cassino. In 1944, the Polish II Corps was assigned to carry out a daring assault on the heavily fortified German Gustav Line around the Monte Cassino Monastery. After three failed engagements, fierce Nazi counterattacks, and heavy losses, Allied troops spearheaded by the Polish Corps conquer the hill. A story told through the experiences of a young soldier, this spectacular battle decided the lives of many soldiers and the fate of the Allied offensive in Italy.

Both films are free (goodwill offering will be accepted)

In Polish with English subtitles.

An honored partner with the main Kosciuszko Foundation headquartered in New York City, New York, the New England Chapter presents programs and events celebrating and promoting Polish culture, history and traditions, as well as
increasing awareness of the contributions of Poland to world civilization.

For information and membership in the Kosciuszko Foundation, visit the Web site by clicking HERE.

For inquiries, reach us at: kfnesecretaryoffice@gmail.com

Mark your calendars, and let’s make this festival unforgettable!