THE WINNER is a 2011 Polish psychological drama directed by Wiesław Saniewski. The story follows Oliver Linovsky, a young American pianist of Polish descent who falls into a deep emotional crisis after a painful breakup with his wife. Cancelling a promising international tour, Oliver isolates himself and struggles to rebuild his life. The film explores an unlikely friendship that becomes a turning point for both protagonists and touches on universal themes of freedom, personal fulfillment, and the pursuit of dreams. As the director describes it, “It’s a film about what truly matters in life, and what often gives us wings — realizing our dreams.”

Cast: Paweł Szajda, Janusz Gajos, Grażyna Barszczewska, Wojciech Pszoniak, Marta Żmuda Trzebiatowska

Locations:
– Lądek Zdrój
– Wrocław: Jan Kaczmarek Concert Hall of Polish Radio (ul. Karkonoska 10), Hotel Monopol (ul. Modrzejewskiej 2)

Awards:
– Audience Award – Tarnów Film Award
– Best Actor Award – “East & West. Classics and Avant-garde” International Film Festival, Orenburg
– Audience Award – Polish Film Festival in America, Chicago

Co-producer: Dolnośląskie Centrum Filmowe (Lower Silesian Film Centre)

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