The Palme d'Or-winning "Anora" and "Saturday Night" at 15. AFF
The Palme d'Or-winning Anora and Saturday Night at the 15th American Film Festival
This is a true Hollywood story, though it unfolds outside the typical Hollywood production machine. We’re talking about Sean Baker – a director whose unique, auteur style remains intact despite the pressures of the industry, and each of his subsequent films is an artistic success. Case in point: Anora, winner of the prestigious Palme d'Or at Cannes, which we are thrilled to present for the first time in Poland at the 15th American Film Festival (November 5-11).
Speaking of successes, the festival lineup will also feature the captivating Saturday Night, offering an insight at the making of one of the most iconic and beloved American TV shows. Both films will be screened courtesy of UIP Poland.
Pass sales, as well as media and industry accreditations, are now open for the 15th AFF.
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We also invite you to join the American Film Festival team as a volunteer! Applications are open until October 7.
Anora: love (im)possible
Sean Baker’s journey mirrors the evolution of the American Film Festival itself. In Wroclaw, we’ve proudly showcased his Tangerine (2015), The Florida Project (2017), and – thanks to a partnership with UIP – premiered Red Rocket (2021). We watched him consistently develop his style and climb the career ladder. Now, we have the honor of celebrating his highest artistic achievement yet: the Palme d’Or at the Cannes IFF, awarded to Baker for Anora.
Don’t be fooled by the color, glitter, and smiles: Baker is a master of using vibrant visuals to conceal sharp, insightful critiques of that part of American society that hasn't caught on to the American dream. Through moving and deeply engaging micro-stories, he exposes the macro-level issues plaguing contemporary America. In Tangerine, he gave a voice to trans communities; in The Florida Project, he peered behind the sunny façade of America’s brightest state. Now, with Anora, he explores "forbidden love" between two rebellious young souls, once again juxtaposing the world of people functioning on society’s fringes with the world ruled by great fortunes. Filled with razor-sharp humor, Anora follows a young stripper (played by the phenomenal Mikey Madison) who catches the eye of a Russian oligarch’s son. But the groom's wealthy family sees the relationship as unacceptable and sets out to tear the couple apart.
Saturday Night: 90 minutes that changed the television (and the world, by the way)
A hit at this year’s Toronto festival, Saturday Night features an all-star cast. Jason Reitman’s latest comedy (Juno, Up in the Air) centers on the debut of Saturday Night Liveon American television. It’s a nostalgic yet unflinching portrait of a generation of comedians unafraid to break taboos and cross boundaries, sparking both laughter and controversy along the way.
The 15th American Film Festival will take place from November 5-11, as always, in Wroclaw. The full program will be revealed on October 22 at noon, with single ticket sales for on-site screenings beginning the following day at the same time. This year, the festival’s online component returns, allowing you to bring the festival into your home once again. More details about the virtual edition of the event will be shared soon.
