After much anticipation, the British Film Festival in Poznań has revealed its complete schedule, showcasing almost 60 films across nine carefully curated sections. From November 13 to 17, Kino Muza will host a celebration of British cinema that spans iconic classics, Polish premieres, and thematic screenings in unique venues around the city. This first-ever edition promises an in-depth exploration of British culture through cinema, from the works of Alfred Hitchcock to the gritty realism of social dramas, promising a unique experience for all film lovers.
A Rich Line-up Worth the Wait
The schedule announcement has been eagerly awaited by cinema enthusiasts in Poznań and beyond. According to Kino Muza’s programmer Dorota Reksińska, the festival was designed not only to showcase Britain’s cinematic achievements but also to create an immersive cultural experience. With themed sections, live Q&As, and even films shown in unexpected locations, the British Film Festival is set to be a landmark event.
Exploring the Nine Sections: Something for Everyone
With the full programme of the British Film Festival now available, it’s clear that it will offer diverse films and genres, ranging from family-friendly screenings to exclusive premieres and classic retrospectives.
- Classics: Hitchcock in the Spotlight
To celebrate Alfred Hitchcock’s 125th birthday, the Classics section will feature both his early British work and his Hollywood masterpieces. Viewers can enjoy a special screening of The Lodger in a historic church, complete with live music, and other classics like Psycho and The Birds, shown in atmospheric settings around Poznań.
- First Things First: Polish Premieres
First Things First promises exclusive premieres, bringing acclaimed films fresh from international festivals to Polish audiences. Highlights include Last Swim, a Berlinale 2024 winner, and On Falling, an award-winning indie hit. This section will also feature The Outrun with Saoirse Ronan, making it a must-see for those eager for fresh British releases.
- Mind the Gap: British Social Realism
Exploring the socio-political landscape of Britain, Mind the Gap includes seminal films like My Beautiful Laundrette and Made in Britain, providing a look into the UK’s complex social issues through its cinematic history.
- Five O’Clock: A Heritage Celebration
Inspired by British tea culture, the Five O’Clock section features heritage cinema that dives into Britain’s colonial past, offering a refined experience with films like Chariots of Fire. Each screening will begin at 5 p.m. in homage to the tradition.
- Bloody Hell!: B-Cinema Delights
For fans of the unconventional, Bloody Hell! will showcase a selection of British B-movies in collaboration with Gdańsk’s Octopus Film Festival. Prepare for cult classics like Psychomania and the post-apocalyptic Hardware, offering a different side of British cinema.
- Outside the Box: Cinematic Adventures Beyond the Theatre
Adding a new layer of excitement, Outside the Box will take audiences out of traditional theatre settings to unique venues. Experience The Birds in an industrial factory hall or Trainspotting in a nightclub, creating unforgettable cinematic moments.
- Never Grow Up: Family-Friendly Films
Designed for younger audiences and families, Never Grow Up brings a blend of animated hits and family favourites, including Paddington in Peru and a chance to meet Paddington himself. This section captures the magic of childhood on screen.
- High Season: The Best of Recent Releases
For anyone wanting to catch up on recent British hits, High Season will screen some of the best releases from the past year, such as Blue Jean and One Life. This section offers the perfect chance to see recent cinematic achievements on the big screen.
- Retrospective Spotlight: Lynne Ramsay’s Films
The retrospective section will spotlight celebrated Scottish filmmaker Lynne Ramsay, with screenings of her acclaimed works such as We Need to Talk About Kevin and You Were Never Really Here. Ramsay will be present at the festival, taking part in Q&As with the audience—a rare opportunity to hear from one of cinema’s most insightful directors.
Tickets on Sale October 30th
With tickets going on sale on 30 October, the British Film Festival is primed to become a highlight of Poznań’s cultural calendar. Single tickets and festival passes will be available online and at Kino Muza’s box office. The programme’s release has generated considerable excitement, and with such a rich line-up, tickets are expected to sell fast.
An Invitation to a Unique Cinematic Journey
From Hitchcock’s suspenseful thrills to Paddington’s joyful antics, the British Film Festival’s newly unveiled schedule promises an unmissable cinematic event. This festival goes beyond standard screenings, offering live music, pop-up cinemas, and films that span every genre and era, creating a fully immersive experience for all. With its diverse line-up, unique venues, and opportunities to meet filmmakers, the British Film Festival is set to become an annual highlight on Poznań’s cultural calendar. More than just a tribute to British cinema, it’s a celebration of storytelling, tradition, and creative diversity that transcends borders. British cinema is ready to take centre stage in Poznań!
