Cristian Mungiu-Penned ‘Traffic,’ Directed by Teodora Ana Mihai, Wins at Warsaw Film Festival

As someone who has spent a significant portion of my life immersed in the world of cinema, I must say that the Warsaw Film Festival Awards list is nothing short of inspiring. Each film, from “Traffic” to “The Black Hole,” showcases the raw talent and unwavering commitment of creators, proving yet again that every project demands our full attention and resilience in the face of challenges.

On a thrilling note, I’m elated to share that I followed in the footsteps of Teodora Ana Mihai’s masterpiece, “Traffic,” which was crowned the victor at the 40th Warsaw Film Festival over the weekend. This exceptional film was penned by none other than Cristian Mungiu, a brilliant mind who claimed the Palme d’Or at Cannes with “4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days.” The captivating Anamaria Vartolomei, who stole our hearts in “Happening,” graced the silver screen in this film as well.

The storyline revolves around Romanian immigrants residing in Belgium, initially treated as unwanted lower-class individuals, eventually transforming into highly sought-after criminals following their audacious decision to execute a heist that irrevocably alters their destinies.

You can watch the trailer here:

https://player.vimeo.com/video/1013493560

Mihai shared with EbMaster that he was thrilled to collaborate closely with Cristian Mungiu, given his role as co-producer. He expected the project would be demanding and tough, but, being no stranger to difficulties, he had already proven this in his previous work on ‘La Civil.’

In my perspective, Cristian and I have consistently resonated with similar interpretations of the themes presented in this movie. Interestingly, it disguises a profound conflict between East and West, or rich and poor, by employing a narrative that humorously mirrors gangster films. This intricate dance symbolizes modern societies grappling with the weight of colonial guilt on one hand, and those carrying the assertive, if not aggressive, legacy of historical oppression on the other.

As a devoted cinephile, I’ve discovered that Romanian cinema transcends the renowned Romanian New Wave, offering a rich tapestry of narratives beyond that celebrated movement.

As a movie critic, I’ve noticed a refreshing trend among local filmmakers: they are fearlessly exploring unique narratives and innovative styles, defying traditional expectations. Even the founding members of this movement are embracing change, for if we cling too tightly to a New Wave, it may soon transform into an Old Wave, restricting our creative freedom to experiment.

It’s clear that everyone would likely concur: Cristian, a significant player in the Romanian New Wave, boldly ventures into new storytelling terrain with this screenplay, blending innovation with his unique style and recurring motifs.

Cristi Mungiu expressed: “Worldwide, there’s too much film production. Additionally, certain popular trends tend to enforce a rule of only addressing politically correct topics. This is unfortunate because it has become extremely challenging to present perspectives that are unconventional or challenge views on global society that we often choose to ignore rather than attempt to understand.

The movie received a grant of 100,000 Polish Zlotys, generously provided by the Mayor of Warsaw. Additionally, the jury, consisting of Maryna Er Gorbach, Oana Iancu, Anna Kazejak, Vinko Brešan, and Alberto Triano, acknowledged Anatol Schuster’s direction in “Chaos and Silence,” awarding him the title of best director. Moreover, Liina Trishkina-Vanhatalo’s script for “Lioness” was also commended by the jury.

In the Competition 1-2, “In Good Faith” by Frauke Lodders emerged victorious. Notably, Nikol Cibulya’s “Tomorrow I Die” received a Special Mention. The Free Spirit Award was bestowed upon “The Black Hole” by Moonika Siimets, and the jurors also highlighted Alexandre Rockwell’s “Lump.” In simpler terms, Frauke Lodders’ work, “In Good Faith,” won the competition, while Nikol Cibulya’s work received a special mention. The Free Spirit Award went to Moonika Siimets’ “The Black Hole,” and the jurors also acknowledged Alexandre Rockwell’s “Lump.

The “Best Documentary Feature” accolade was presented to the film “War Correspondent,” directed by Benjamin Tuček and David Čálek, whereas Guan Hu’s “Black Dog” – described by EbMaster as “a powerful China-noir that explores the struggle to control inner demons” – garnered favor with the judges in both the Crème de la Crème Competition and NETPAC.

The final movie shown at the festival was titled “Traffic”, which commenced on October 11 with the premiere of “Kulej. All that Glitters Isn’t Gold” by Xavery Żuławski. This film centered around a Polish boxer who gained notoriety in the 1960s.

The concept originated from Waldemar, the son of the late champion, who presented it at Watchout Studio. Kulej, a two-time Olympic champion and holder of two gold medals, was truly legendary – he was incredibly famous under socialism. Everyone spoke about him, referenced him. There was no doubt in my mind. It seemed essential to create a film about this master,” stated Żuławski.

As I delved deeper into crafting the screenplay, I unearthed the captivating figure of Helena, his wife. For six decades, she had been overshadowed by her dynamic husband. However, her journey towards self-discovery and her valiant efforts to break free from those shadows were not only a significant aspect of their lives but also wove themselves into the very fabric of our film.

Regardless if a movie is independent or mainstream, crafting one is always challenging. Every production demands our unwavering dedication as creators, pushing us to confront the issues that surface during the process, irrespective of the film’s category.

Warsaw Film Festival will wrap on Oct. 20.

Full list of awards:

International Competition

Warsaw Grand Prix (offering PLN 100,000): “Traffic,” directed by Teodora Ana Mihai (Romania, Belgium, Netherlands) – The upcoming Warsaw Grand Prix is featuring the movie “Traffic,” which is directed by Teodora Ana Mihai from Romania, Belgium, and Netherlands. This film competition offers a prize of PLN 100,000.

Best Director
Anatol Schuster for “Chaos and Silence” (Germany)

2021 Special Jury Prize for Screenwriting was awarded to Liina Trishkina-Vanhatalo for the film “Lioness,” a co-production between Estonia, Germany, and Latvia.

Competition 1-2

Winner
“In Good Faith,” dir. Frauke Lodders (Germany)

Special Mention
“Tomorrow I Die,” dir. Nikol Cibulya (Hungary)

Free Spirit Competition

Free Spirit Award
“The Black Hole,” dir. Moonika Siimets (Estonia, Finland)

Special Mention
“Lump,” dir. Alexandre Rockwell (U.S.)

Crème de la Crème Competition

Crème de la Crème Award
“Black Dog,” dir. Guan Hu (China)

Special Mention
“Red Path,” dir. Lotfi Achour (Tunisia, France, Belgium, Poland)

Documentary Competition

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to shout out the Best Documentary Feature Award winner, “War Correspondent,” skillfully directed by Benjamin Tuček and David Čálek, a joint production between the Czech Republic, Ukraine, and Slovakia.

Special Mention
“Made in Ethiopia,” dir. Xinyan Yu, Max Duncan (Canada, Ethiopia, U.S., U.K.)

Special Mention
“Beyond Rock Bottom,” dir. Ádám Miklós (Hungary)

NETPAC Award
“Black Dog,” dir. Guan Hu (China)

Ecumenical Jury Award
“Bitter Gold,” dir. Juan Francisco Olea (Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, Germany)

Notable Recognition: “Late Summer,” directed by Danis Tanović (Produced in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Romania, Slovenia, Serbia)

FIPRESCI Award
“Ink Wash,” dir. Sarra Tsorakidis

Young FIPRESCI Award
“The Crossroads,” dir. Dominika Montean-Pańków (Poland)

Short Film CompetitionShort Grand Prix
“Service,” dir. Michał Edelman (Poland)

Best Live Action Short
“All That Remains,” dir. Andrei Redinciuc (Romania)

Special Mention (Live Action)
“Amos, Vogel,” dir. Iñaki Salvador García Miranda (Mexico)

Best Animated Short
“Mautini,” dir. Tabarak Allah Abbas (Switzerland)

Best Documentary Short
“Run Monnie, Run,” dir. Karolina Biesiacka (Poland)

2024-10-19 19:47

Cristian Mungiu-Penned ‘Traffic,’ Directed by Teodora Ana Mihai, Wins at Warsaw Film Festival

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