Beyond Words
Michael, a 28-year-old lawyer from Berlin, is no different from his boss and friend, 34-year-old Franz. On Friday morning Michael stops speaking German and becomes a Polish man: Michałek. He meets Stanisław, his 55-year-old father from Poland. Michael is seeing him for the first time. Stanisław enters his son's world more as a father symbol than a real father. He is Michael's last link to Poland – the country he intentionally severed ties with. They are basically strangers. The men will spend a weekend together, which will leave a strong emotional mark on Michael as he realizes how alienated he is. (Festival information)
The award for "Beyond Words" honours its high artistic quality. The performance of the two principle actors and the impressive use of black and white photography stand out. The film creatively reflects on the global issue of migration and the complex relationship between Poland and Germany. It underlines the value of human dignity, and specifically the Christian concept of forgiveness.