University of Silesia in Katowice (USK), Katowice, Poland
The Kieślowski Film School, named after the renowned Polish filmmaker Krzysztof Kieślowski, was established in the year 2002 and is an organizational unit of the University of Silesia. Located in Katowice, Poland, the school aims to foster the next generation of filmmakers by providing a comprehensive and innovative education in the art and craft of filmmaking. The school’s mission is to nurture creativity, critical thinking, and storytelling skills, preparing students to become proficient filmmakers with a unique voice. Kieślowski Film School’s strategy revolves around a hands-on approach to education, combining theory with practice to enable students to develop their artistic vision while gaining practical experience.
The school provides Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in four degree programs: Film and TV Production, Film Directing, Cinematography and Photography, Creative Management in New Media. The language of instruction is primarily Polish with currently one MA course offered entirely in English: Creative Management in New Media.
As for tuition fees, in the 2022/3 school year, the fees for Polish nationals and EU students were approximately 2,000 EUR per academic year for BA and MA programs and 2,500 EUR per academic year for MFA and PhD programs. Non-EU students paid higher fees, around 3,000 EUR for BA and MA programs and 3,500 EUR for PhD programs.
In the 2022/3 school year, the school received a significant number of applicants, with male and female applicants almost equally represented. The enrolled student ratio was also balanced, indicating a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The school maintains rigorous admission criteria and practical exercises to evaluate students’ artistic potential, creativity, and dedication to filmmaking. Graduation obligations involve completing a series of film projects, demonstrating proficiency in various aspects of filmmaking, and presenting a final thesis project.
The Kieślowski Film School takes pride in its accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions to the film industry. Among its successful graduates is Jan P. Matuszyński, who majored in Film Directing. Matuszyński is an acclaimed director, best known for Ostatnia Rodzina (The Last Family), a biographical drama based on the life of Polish artist Zdzisław Beksiński. The film received numerous awards, including the 2019 Andrzej Munk Prize and the 2017 Polish Film Award.
Another notable graduate is Maciej Pieprzyca, who also pursued Film Directing. Pieprzyca is a scriptwriter and director of feature films such as Chce się żyć (Life Feels Good). This emotionally gripping drama won several awards, including the Grand Prix at the International Film Festival in Montreal and the Silver Hugo at the Chicago International Film Festival.
Piotr Rosołowski, who specialized in Cinematography, is co-director of documentaries like Hamlet Syndrome and The Domino Effect. He is also known for co-authoring Rabbit a la Berlin, an Academy Award-nominated short documentary. Rosołowski’s works have received accolades, with Goat Walker winning the Planet Documentary Film Award at the Berlinale.
Piotr Domalewski, a Film Director and Actor, is another standout alumnus. His feature debut, Silent Night, received 22 awards, including five Golden Lions and nine Eagles at the Polish Film Academy Awards. Domalewski’s film I Never Cry (2020) was awarded the Polish Eagle for the best cinematography and script, as well as for the acting debut of Zofia Stafiej.
Aneta Hickinbotham is an accomplished production manager and producer, specializing in Film and Television Production. She has worked on films like The International (2009), Corpus Christi (2019), and Last Family (2016).
Klaudia Śmieja Rostworowska is a member of the European Film Academy and a co-producer of award-winning films like Rams and Clair Obscur. Her involvement in diverse projects has contributed significantly to the international film landscape.
Damian Kocur, a Cinematography graduate, has earned acclaim for his award-winning films like Bread and Salt and Beyond Is the Day. His unique vision and directorial approach have been widely recognized.
Agata Szymańska, a Film and Television Production alumna, is the co-founder of production company BALAPOLIS. The company is known for producing groundbreaking films, showcasing the artistic diversity of its creators.
In conclusion, the Kieślowski Film School stands as a beacon of creativity and excellence in the realm of filmmaking education. With a dedicated faculty, a rich pool of successful graduates, and a focus on practical learning, the school continues to shape the future of cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the global film landscape.
For a glimpse into the talent nurtured by the Kieślowski Film School, one can explore a selection of students’ films on the school’s official website or YouTube channel. These films, spanning various genres and styles, reflect the creative ingenuity and passion instilled in the students of the Kieślowski Film School, as they emerge as the future luminaries of the cinematic world:
https://www.writv.us.edu.pl/en/short-films
https://www.youtube.com/@szkoafilmowaim.krzysztofak6641/videos
