About the Movie
Simona Kossak (also known as Gawre or The Lair) is a 2024 Polish biographical drama (with elements of historical drama) focusing on the life of Simona Kossak, a renowned biologist, ecologist, and professor known for her unconventional life and deep connection with nature, particularly the Białowieża Forest. The film, running 100 minutes, explores her scientific work, her passionate advocacy for animal rights and environmental protection, and her personal journey of self-discovery.
Plot Summary
The film portrays Simona Kossak's life, beginning with her departure from her aristocratic family in Kraków and her move to a remote wooden hut called "Dziedzinka" in the heart of the Białowieża Forest. This move is both a rejection of societal expectations and an embrace of her passion for nature. She lived there for over 30 years, deeply immersed in the wilderness.
The narrative follows Simona as she conducts her research, studying the behavior of animals, including lynx, deer, and birds. Her approach is often unorthodox, challenging established scientific norms. She forms a strong bond with the animals, living among them and earning their trust. The movie highlights her unique relationship with a raven (Korasek) and a wild boar (Żabka), which became almost legendary.
The film also delves into Simona's personal life, her relationships, and her struggles against those who threaten the forest's ecosystem. It shows her activism, her writings, and her radio broadcasts, through which she shared her knowledge and passion with a wider audience. The story highlights her commitment to protecting the primeval forest from logging and human interference. It explores the complexities of her character – her independence, her strong will, and perhaps her loneliness in her chosen isolation. The film shows her unwavering and non-conformist attitude against those who disrespect nature.
Director's Vision
Adrian Panek's vision is to create an intimate and immersive portrait of Simona Kossak, celebrating her as a pioneer and a visionary. The film emphasizes the beauty and power of the natural world, contrasting it with the constraints of human society. The aim is a blend of biographical accuracy and artistic interpretation, capturing the spirit of Simona's unconventional life and her profound connection with the wilderness. The cinematography, by Jakub Stolecki, is a key element, showcasing the stunning landscapes of the Białowieża Forest.
Themes
Harmony with Nature: This is the central theme. The film celebrates Simona's deep connection with nature and her belief in the interconnectedness of all living things.
Individualism and Nonconformity: Simona rejects societal expectations and chooses a path that aligns with her values and passions. The film explores the challenges and rewards of living an unconventional life.
Environmentalism and Conservation: The film highlights the importance of protecting natural ecosystems and the urgent need for environmental awareness.
Animal Rights: Simona's deep respect for animals and her fight against their exploitation are central to the story.
The Power of Observation: The film underscores the importance of scientific observation and the value of understanding the natural world through direct experience.
Feminism: Simona's story, although not explicitly labeled as feminist, embodies a strong female character breaking barriers in a male-dominated field and challenging traditional gender roles.
Legacy and Inspiration: The film aims to inspire viewers to connect with nature and to fight for its preservation, carrying on Simona Kossak's legacy.
Freedom and Independence: In the primeval forest Simona find freedom and indepence to pursue her dreams.
Key Success Factors
Strong Lead Performance: Sandra Drzymalska's portrayal of Simona Kossak is crucial, capturing her intensity, intelligence, and deep connection with nature.
Stunning Visuals: The cinematography by Jakub Stolecki showcases the beauty and majesty of the Białowieża Forest, making it a character in itself.
Authentic Portrayal: The film's success depends on its ability to portray Simona's life and work, based on Anna Kaminska's book "Simona. Opowiesc o niezwyczajnym zyciu Simony Kossak," with accuracy and respect.
Emotional Connection: The audience needs to connect with Simona's passion and understand her motivations.
Compelling Narrative: The story, written by Adrian Panek, needs to be engaging, balancing the biographical elements with the dramatic tension of Simona's struggles and triumphs.
Sound Design: Capturing the sounds of the forest is crucial for creating an immersive experience, complementing Bartosz Chajdecki's musical score.
Summary (Short)
Biologist Simona Kossak leaves her aristocratic life behind to live in the remote Białowieża Forest, dedicating herself to studying and protecting its unique ecosystem and wildlife. The film explores her unconventional life, her scientific work, her activism, and her deep bond with the natural world.
Awards and Nominations: 1 win & 7 nominations
2025 Polish Film Awards:
Nominated: Eagle Award for Best Costume Design (Paulina Sieniarska, Kalina Lach)
Nominated: Eagle Award for Best Actress (Sandra Drzymalska)
Nominated: Eagle Award for Best Music (Bartosz Chajdecki)
Nominated: Eagle Award for Best Supporting Actress (Agata Kulesza)
Nominated: Eagle Award for Best Production Design (Agata Adamus)
2024 Polish Film Festival:
Won: Film for the Climate Award (Out of Main Competition) (Adrian Panek)
Nominated: Golden Lions for Best Film (Agata Szymanska, Magdalena Kaminska, Adrian Panek)
2024 Zbigniew Cybulski Award
Nominated, Zbigniew Cybulski Award Young Actor with an Outstanding Individuality (Sandra Drzymalska )
Critics Reception
Overall Summary: The initial reception has been positive, with praise for the film's visuals, Sandra Drzymalska's lead performance, and its powerful message about nature conservation.
Sites:
Filmweb (Poland): This is a major Polish film site, and user reviews are generally very positive, highlighting the film's beauty and the inspiring story of Simona Kossak.
IMDb: Early reviews are positive, though the number of reviews is still limited.
Reviews About the Movie Online
Sites: Filmweb, IMDb, and other Polish film sites are the primary sources.
What They Are Saying: Reviewers are emphasizing the film's visual beauty, the strong portrayal of Simona Kossak, and the film's timely message about environmental protection. Some may find the pacing slow, characteristic of biographical dramas, but the overall sentiment is appreciation for the subject matter and the filmmaking.
Box Office
Worldwide Gross (as of March 1, 2025): $835,297
Production
Summary: The film was shot on location in Poland, primarily in and around the Białowieża Forest, crucial for capturing the authenticity of Simona's life. The production likely involved working closely with environmental organizations to ensure minimal impact on the sensitive ecosystem. The screenplay is by Adrian Panek, based on the book "Simona. Opowiesc o niezwyczajnym zyciu Simony Kossak" by Anna Kaminska.
It is a Polish production.
Production Companies
Balapolis [PL] (produced by)
Wytwórnia Filmów Dokumentalnych i Fabularnych (WFDiF) [PL] (co-production)
Mazowiecki Instytut Kultury [PL] (co-production)
Krakowskie Biuro Festiwalowe [PL] (co-production)
Hollman Emea [PL] (co-production)
Mazowiecki i Warszawski Fundusz Filmowy [PL] (co-production)
Polski Instytut Sztuki Filmowej (PISF) [PL] (co-financed by)
Urzad Marszalkowski Województwa Mazowieckiego [PL] (co-financed by)
Urzad Miasta Stolecznego Warszawy [PL] (co-financed by)
Distribution Companies
Next Film [PL] (2024) (Poland) (Theatrical)
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14618302/
Link Review: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2024/dec/09/simona-kossak-review-smartly-sharp-biopic-of-pioneering-polish-ecologist
About movie: https://next-film.pl/en/film/simona-kossak-2/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/pl/film/simona-kossak (Poland)
Why to Recommend This Movie
Simona Kossak offers a powerful and inspiring story about a woman who defied convention to live in harmony with nature. It's a timely reminder of the importance of environmental protection and the power of individual action. The film's stunning visuals and strong performances make it a compelling watch for anyone interested in nature, science, and inspiring biographical stories.
Why You Should Watch the Movie (Bullets)
Inspiring True Story: Learn about the extraordinary life of Simona Kossak.
Beautiful Cinematography: Experience the majesty of the Białowieża Forest.
Strong Female Lead: See a powerful portrayal of a woman breaking barriers.
Environmental Message: A timely reminder of the importance of conservation.
Unique Perspective: Gain a different perspective on our relationship with nature.
Emotional Journey: Connect with Simona's passion and dedication.
What Movie Trend Film is Following
Biopics of Unconventional Women: This film fits into the growing trend of biopics focusing on women who defied societal norms and made significant contributions in their fields.
What Big Social Trend is Following
Environmental Awareness and Activism: The film directly addresses the growing global concern for environmental protection and the need for sustainable living. It aligns with the increasing awareness of climate change and biodiversity loss.
Final Verdict
Simona Kossak is a highly recommended film, especially for those interested in nature, environmentalism, and biographical stories of strong, independent women. While the pacing might be considered slow by some, the film's visual beauty, powerful message, and compelling central performance make it a worthwhile watch. It's a film that stays with you, prompting reflection on our relationship with the natural world and the legacy of individuals who dedicate their lives to its protection.
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