by Tanasha Allwood
Hollywood History Meets International Cinema
The Polish Film Festival North America, held from November 12 – 18 in Los Angeles, wrapped its final night with a dazzling red carpet ceremony inside one of Hollywood’s most iconic landmarks—the Hollywood Museum, housed in the historic Max Factor Building. The setting alone was enough to transport guests into a world where nostalgia and cinema collide. From I Love Lucy to screen icons Elizabeth Taylor, Judy Garland and Marilyn Monroe, to epic TV series and films, including I Love Lucy, The Dukes of Hazzard, Star Trek Rocky, the museum’s collection reads like a love letter to classic Hollywood. Even the evolution of Cat Women throughout pop culture had its own dedicated showcase. I could have easily spent an entire day exploring.
Unexpected Encounters and Award-Winning Moments
In a delightful twist, I met Donelle Dadigan, the owner of the museum and building—an encounter that added an intimate layer to an already special evening. But the night’s star moment came with meeting award-winning actor Eric Roberts. Not only did he graciously take a selfie with me, but he also accepted an award honoring his contributions to Polish American film and culture. His presence brought a blend of Hollywood legacy and international appreciation that perfectly matched the tone of the ceremony.
Roberts received an Award for Contributions to Polish-American Film & Culture, a true friend of Polish cinema and Polish-American culture. By joining the Polish co-production Lights, Camera, directed by Diana Renée, he helped shine a brighter light on a story created between our two worlds — Hollywood and Poland — and showed how powerful it is when artists come together across borders.
Additionally, actor/creative professional Danny Pudi received the Polish Hollywood Artist of Polish Heritage Award, while Dadigan was recognized with an award for the Preservation and Promotion of Polish Heritage in Hollywood.
Music, Community, and My First Taste of Polish Culture
Though I arrived knowing little about Polish traditions, I left feeling deeply connected to the warmth of the community. Singer Nina Anto performed several songs in Polish, filling the room with a sound both soulful and fresh to my ears. I even ventured into my first experience with Polish cuisine—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly familiar in its heartiness.
A Celebration That Transcended Borders
What began as a glamorous event quickly became something more: a shared celebration of art, identity, and cultural exchange. The sense of love, community, and mutual respect in the air made the evening not just memorable, but meaningful. In Hollywood—a city built on storytelling—the Polish Film Festival North America reminded us why stories matter: they build bridges, spark curiosity, and bring people together.
Following the awards presentation was a special screening of Franz, Poland’s official submission to the Oscars, directed by the distinguished filmmaker Agnieszka Holland. Idan Weiss, the actor who portrayed Franz Kafka, together with the film’s producer Marcin Wierzchosławski were in attendance.
Throughout the week, PFFNA-Hollywood showcased a vibrant selection of Polish features, shorts, international co-productions, and emerging voices, hosting screenings at the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills, The Harmony Gold Theater, The Lee Strasberg Theater and Film Institute, UCLA and the Hollywood Museum.
“Our mission is simple — to make Polish stories shine on American screens,” says Director Monika Ekiert. “This first year exceeded all expectations, thanks to our community, our artists, and our incredible partners. Tonight is not an ending — it’s the beginning of a cultural bridge connecting Poland and Hollywood for years to come.”
Plans for the 2026 edition of the festival are already underway, with expanded screenings, new partnerships, and satellite events planned in cities such as Chicago, New York and Miami.
Polish Film Festival North America™ (PFFNA) is a new, independent cultural initiative dedicated to promoting Polish cinema and creative talent across the United States and Canada. Polish-born Monika Ekiert brings a rare combination of artistic talent and intellectual depth to her role as Director of the Polish Film Festival North America in Hollywood. California – Polish Film Festival | North America
Photos Courtesy of Polish Film Festival North America & Tanasha Allwood.
Nicole Muj contributed to story.
