“JUDGES UNDER PRESSURE” TO OPEN CZECH FESTIVAL

The documentary by Kacper Lisowski has been selected to open the One World International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival. It won't be the only Polish production in the program. Michał Kawecki's No Hero At All also has a chance to win awards.

One World International Human Rights Documentary Film Festival in Prague is one of the world's largest festivals dedicated to human rights films. It's attended by more than 120,000 guests every year. This year's program includes 80 documentaries and 6 multimedia projects. In addition to screenings held in Prague, the films are also shown in 25 various Czech cities.

This year, the festival will be opened by the Polish production directed by Kacper Lisowski. A discussion with producer Iwona Harris, the film's protagonist Igor Tuleya, and the director will be held after the screening. 

Judges Under Pressure tells the story of unwavering judges who defend the Constitution and the separation of powers. One of them is judge Igor Tuleya, who – against external pressure – passes verdicts unfavourable for the government. This makes him enemy number one for the authorities and the face of judicial rebellion for protesting citizens. The film shows the consequences of his uncompromising attitude. We look at the effects political pressure has on his life. At the same time, we are witnessing the extraordinary solidarity shown by both judges and ordinary citizens. Meanwhile the rule of law in Poland is being dismantled in plain sight. Following the ruling of the politicised Constitutional Tribunal on abortion, Poland sees the largest wave of social unrest in its history. Judges take to the streets to stand shoulder to shoulder with citizens in defence of the rule of law.

In addition to Lisowski's film, the competition also includes Michał Kawecki's No Hero At All. The protagonist of the film is Miszka – a boy with many faces. A petty criminal and promising alpine skier, despite his sever physical disability and difficult living conditions, he's living life to the fullest. Plus, he has an extraordinary sense of humour. We meet him at a crucial moment when he enters adulthood and gets one last chance to take part in the Paralympics. But above all, the hero must decide what his future is going to look like. Despite his limitations, he doesn’t shy away from taking on new challenges in life.

You can read more about the festival here.