The 15. International People's Jury
The Five Flavours Film Festival in Warsaw is an annual festival in Warsaw, Poland. It focusses on films from South East Asia.
After seeing eleven films, we chose Spring Tide by Yang Lina as the winner of the New Asian Cinema Competition.
Workshops
The festival wanted to enable us, to create our own space in the film industry.
"How To Set Up Your Own Festival” by Alex Oost, director of Camera Japan Festival Rotterdam and Bastian Meiresonne, artistic director of many festivals and Asian film expert.
"How to Introduce a Film” by Marcin Krasnovolski, film journalist and television producer.
"How to Start A Successful Podcast” by Kasia Czajka, one of Polands most popular podcast hosts.
Discussions
The most rewarding part of being a juror were our discussions. We would dissect the films based on their writing, style and performances etc., but also muse over meaning and symbolism. Interpretation is one of my favourite parts of the viewing experience, so hearing other people’s perspectives felt very exciting.
Our discussions and in-depth consideration of the films helped me understand my personal preferences for films more. I learned to have a grounded opinion about a film and to discuss it with other people.
Belonging
Film, for me, has always been about belonging with people through the shared experience of seeing a film. Spending those 10 days with other young, passionate people like me was eye-opening. Not only did we instantly establish a bond within the group, but I also strongly feel like I am in the right place now. I have a place in this film world, and I am so excited to keep building it.
One of my proudest moments: announcing the winning film to the audience.
All images on this page are by Natalia Poniatowska.