Polish Film ‘What Belongs to Others’ Wins Top Prize at Warsaw Film Festival

The acclaimed Polish drama “What Belongs to Others” has secured the prestigious Grand Prix at the 42nd Warsaw International Film Festival, marking a significant achievement for director Grzegorz Dębowski and the film’s cast and crew.

Warsaw Film Festival Honors Polish Drama

The Warsaw International Film Festival, a key event in the European cinematic calendar, concluded its 42nd edition by honoring the Polish film “What Belongs to Others” with its highest accolade, the Grand Prix. The festival, which ran from October 9 to October 18, 2026, showcased a diverse range of international cinema, highlighting emerging talent and established filmmakers. The Warsaw Film Foundation, organizers of the festival, stated that the Grand Prix is awarded to films that demonstrate exceptional artistic merit and contribute to fostering understanding between different cultures. The festival aims to present the best films from around the world to both Polish and international audiences. “What Belongs to Others” premiered earlier this year in the Orizzonti section at the Venice Film Festival, where it garnered critical attention.

Film’s Narrative and Cast Recognition

The film, written and directed by Grzegorz Dębowski, centers on Kasia, a woman who makes a living by burglarizing apartments. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a dead body during a break-in and decides to inhabit the deceased man’s apartment. As she delves into his memories, relationships, and secrets, Kasia begins to envision a different life for herself, finding the impetus to instigate changes in her own circumstances. The cast of “What Belongs to Others” features Monika Kwiatkowska in the lead role of Kasia, supported by Robert Mania, Ewa Pajak, Martyna Rozwadowska, and Jadwiga Grygierczyk. The film’s cinematography is by Stanisław Horodecki, and it was produced by Agnieszka Skalska for Blue Onion, with co-production support from Mazowiecki i Warszawski Fundusz Filmowy, Koi Studio, Color Pro, and Ucho Studio.

Festival’s Significance and Programming

The Warsaw International Film Festival is known for its competitive sections, including the International Competition, Competition 1-2 for first and second features, the Free Spirit Competition for independent films, a Documentary Competition, and a Short Films Competition. The festival’s commitment to showcasing global cinema and providing a platform for diverse narratives has solidified its reputation as a significant cultural event in Central Europe. This year’s festival featured 190 titles, including 102 world, international, or regional premieres, spread across 330 screenings. The event opened with Jesse Eisenberg’s “The Debut” and Hans Petter Moland’s “Growth of the Soil.” The Warsaw International Film Festival is accredited by FIAPF as an international competitive film festival.

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