She picked it up on Saturday evening. This is the director’s first distinction in this competition and her third nomination in her career. “Zielona Granica” had a great chance of winning the Golden Lion in the Main Competition, but it was decided that it would go to Yorgos Lanthimos and his “Poor Creatures”. Holland, together with other directors honored that evening, took part in a press conference, where she was asked what reaction she expected from Europe after the premiere of her film.
Agnieszka Holland appeals to Europe
The European reception of Agnieszka Holland’s film immediately after its premiere in Venice was very enthusiastic. It was openly said that she was one of the main candidates for the main prize and if anyone could overtake the director, it would be Yorgos Lanthimos. Unfortunately, the critics’ predictions came true – “Poor Creatures” received the Golden Lion. However, Agnieszka Holland does not return empty-handed. The Special Jury Award indicates that “The Green Border” was not only noticed, but also appreciated. What does the director expect from Europe now? She answered directly:
It’s a paradox to be here with a film like this – we are at a festival that is a celebration of cinema: in beautiful dresses, on the red carpet – began Agnieszka Holland. – And at the same time, it is a film about a human tragedy, about the cruelty of politicians and ordinary people. This is a topic that will soon change the reality of Europe – and not for the good, I’m afraid.
We need this red carpet to interest viewers in the topic and people I show – migrants, activists, guards who do cruel things to stop others from crossing the border.
They have no voice. But they don’t have a voice not because they are silent and don’t have a platform, but because you don’t want to listen to them. When we have an opportunity like a film festival and the film is real, honest, influential, and can pierce people’s hearts – it helps. But we will not change reality with one or two films. We have to do more. What do I expect from Europe? That he will wake up. Because this is the last moment – she concluded.
Agnieszka Holland received applause. Even before the announcement of this year’s winners, the director had the opportunity to talk to the editor of the website. In an interview, she mentions that although “The Green Border” shows the situation on the Polish-Belarusian border, her film is universal:
This is a story about the situation of refugees everywhere. The situation in the Balkans is terrible. It is terrible in Tunisia, where refugees from Saharan Africa are trying to get to Spain. In Saudi Arabia, where border guards shoot. In America, where Texas rangers push kids back into the river and deny them water. This is not an isolated situation, which only makes it even more tragic. This is the only answer the rich world knows, she said.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
