Emotions make stories universal
The world of cinema often chases the illusion of universal appeal, but sometimes, the pursuit of broad success leads to a very narrow, and frankly, very bland outcome. At the recent Warsaw International Film Festival’s Industry Talks, filmmakers grappled with this tension, acknowledging that the quest for ‘tasteless’ or ‘vanilla’ storytelling can leave audiences unmoved.
The conversation delved into a crucial question: How Can Stories Travel? Development Strategies for International Audiences. Moderated by screenwriter and script consultant Anna Bielak, the discussion explored the delicate art of reaching global audiences while fiercely protecting the unique local roots that give a film its distinct character.
The panelists brought powerful examples to the table, demonstrating that genuine international success lies not in dilution, but in skillful translation. Director Grzegorz Dębowski, for instance, shared the journey of his second feature, What Belongs To Others, which has successfully traveled from the glamour of Venice to the bustling streets of Busan, now finding its stage in Warsaw’s International Competition.
Other participants shared their perspectives on navigating this landscape. Sergio Garcia de Leaniz, a project manager for the Eurimages project, provided insights into the logistical and creative strategies required to bridge cultural divides. Mariusz Włodarski, producer known for the Oscar-nominated film The Girl With The Needle, spoke on the production realities of maintaining artistic integrity under commercial pressures.
Eliza Subotowicz, film director and artistic coordinator of the HerArts Film Lab, contributed her experience in fostering the development of distinct voices, emphasizing that authentic narratives are the most magnetic ones when they find their way across borders.
Ultimately, the session served as a reminder that the true innovation in international cinema lies in finding the perfect equilibrium—a space where global reach and local specificity dance together, ensuring that stories not only travel but also resonate profoundly with every audience they encounter.
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Eliza Subotowicz, Mariusz Włodarski, Grzegorz Dębowski, Sergio Garcia de Leaniz and Anna Bielak
Photo: Courtesy of Warsaw Film Festival |
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