Polish co-production with the Independent Spirit Award

Co-financed by the Polish Film Institute, co-production of nine countries, including Poland, „Quo vadis, Aida?” by Jasmila Žbanić received the Independent Spirit Award for the best international film. This is one of the most important awards in American independent cinema.

„Aida” („Quo vadis, Aida?”) is an Oscar candidate nominated by Bosnia and Herzegovina. This drama, directed by Jasmila Žbanić, tells the story of the Srebrenica massacre in 1995. Apart from Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Austria, Romania, the Netherlands, Germany, France, Norway and Turkey participated in the production of the image. The Polish producer is Ewa Puszczyńska (Extreme Emotions), Małgorzata Karpiuk was responsible for the costumes, Jarosław Kamiński for the editing, and Antoni Komasa-Łazarkiewicz was the author of the music.

The film received two nominations for the British Academy of Film and Television Awards – BAFTA in the categories: non-English language film and director. Previously, it was screened at the 77th Venice International Film Festival (main competition), 45th Toronto International Film Festival, and the World Cinema section of the Busan International Film Festival.

Independent Spirit Awards

Independent Spirit Awards are awarded annually to independent cinema creators by the non-profit organization Film Independent, which associates independent filmmakers. The budget of films eligible for the Independent Spirit Awards must not exceed $22.5 million.

This year’s big winner was the film „Nomadland”, which won four awards – film of the year, best director, editing and cinematography. The Best Actress award went to Carey Mulligan, who was recognized for her performance in „Promising Young Woman”.  This film was also appreciated for its script. Two acting awards were won by Riz Ahmed and Paul Raci appearing in „Sound of Metal”, and the third prize was won by the director making his debut with this film. Andy Siara was awarded for the screenplay debut for „Palm Springs” and „Crip Camp” won among the documentaries. Independent Spirit Awards also appreciated television productions for the first time, including „I May Destroy You” and „Unorthodox”.