Poznań’s cultural landscape is set to become more inclusive with the inauguration of the Cinema Without Barriers festival at the ZAMEK Culture Centre. Running from 26th February to 1st March 2025, this pioneering event aims to promote equality in film art access, ensuring that cinema is accessible to all, regardless of physical abilities.
A Festival for Everyone
The Cinema Without Barriers (Kino bez barier) festival is a groundbreaking initiative by the ZAMEK Culture Centre (CK Zamek), designed to provide a cinematic experience that caters to a diverse audience, including individuals with disabilities. The festival’s programme features a selection of films equipped with audio descriptions, sign language interpretations, and subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone can fully engage with the cinematic narratives presented.
Diverse Cinematic Offerings
Drawing inspiration from three geographical regions—Europe, Asia, and America—the festival’s lineup includes a variety of films that reflect the rich storytelling traditions of these areas. From European dramas to Asian animations and American premieres, the selection offers something for every cinephile. Notable titles include the Japanese animated masterpiece Spirited Away, the Polish drama Woman of…, and the American romantic drama Appetite for More. La Cocina. Each screening is complemented by discussions and panels, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes explored in the films.
Full Festival Schedule
The Cinema Without Barriers festival will take place from 26th February to 1st March 2025 at the ZAMEK Culture Centre. The event features a diverse selection of films, all with accessible options, including audio description, Polish Sign Language interpretation, and subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing. Each day, audiences will have the chance to experience films from different regions, alongside discussions and special meetings with filmmakers.
Wednesday, 26th February
- Explanation of Everything – 11:00
- Spirited Away – 16:00 (preceded by a panel on Japanese animation)
- Woman of… – 18:00 (followed by a discussion on inclusive language)
- Appetite for More. La Cocina – 20:00
Thursday, 27th February
- Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World – 11:00
- Flow – 16:00
- Emilia Pérez – 18:00
Friday, 28th February
- Kensuke’s Kingdom – 14:00
- My Neighbour Totoro – 16:00
- Familiar Touch – 18:00
Saturday, 1st March
- Oskar, Patka and the Baltic Gold – 12:00 (followed by a meeting with the filmmakers)
- Kleks and the Invention of Filip the Barber – 15:00 (followed by a discussion with actress Antonia Litwiniak)
- Pelican Blue – 19:00
All screenings take place in the Kino Pałacowe at the ZAMEK Culture Centre. Tickets cost 10 PLN and are available for purchase both at the venue and online. A special promotion applies when buying three tickets at once, reducing the price per ticket.
Engaging Discussions and Workshops
The festival is not limited to film screenings; it also encompasses interactive sessions with filmmakers and industry experts. These discussions provide audiences with insights into the creative processes behind the films and address broader topics such as inclusivity in cinema and the importance of accessible art. Workshops are also on offer, aiming to educate participants on creating and promoting accessible film content, thereby encouraging a more inclusive film industry.
The Role of ZAMEK Culture Centre
Situated in the historic Imperial Castle at Święty Marcin 80/82, the ZAMEK Culture Centre is one of Poznań’s most important cultural institutions. Hosting approximately 2,500 cultural events annually, including theatre performances, film screenings, concerts, literary meetings, and art exhibitions, the centre is a vibrant hub where visual arts, theatre, film, music, and literature converge. Its commitment to social engagement and collaboration with the local community underscores its mission to make art accessible to all. The Cinema Without Barriers festival exemplifies this dedication by breaking down obstacles that have traditionally excluded individuals with disabilities from fully enjoying cinematic arts.
Fostering Inclusivity in Poznań
The introduction of the Cinema Without Barriers festival marks a significant step towards fostering inclusivity within Poznań’s cultural scene. By implementing solutions that accommodate individuals with various disabilities, the festival not only broadens access to art but also enriches the community by promoting diversity and understanding. Such initiatives challenge societal perceptions of disability and pave the way for a more inclusive future, where art and culture are truly accessible to all.
Practical Information
The festival runs from 26th February to 1st March 2025. Tickets are priced at 10 PLN and are available at the ZAMEK Culture Centre box office and online. A special promotion offers a discount when purchasing three tickets simultaneously. For group reservations, contact +48 607 609 320. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and screenings are equipped with induction loops to assist those with hearing impairments. For more details, visit the official website of the ZAMEK Culture Centre.
The Cinema Without Barriers festival is more than just a series of film screenings; it’s a celebration of inclusivity and a testament to Poznań’s commitment to making art accessible to all. By embracing diversity and implementing thoughtful accommodations, the festival sets a precedent for future cultural events, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can partake in the rich tapestry of cinematic art.
