Human Rights Film Festival “Inconvenient Films” is an annual event devoted to films that address important, current issues related to human rights. The first edition was held in 2007. The festival doesn’t only invite filmmakers from around the world but also activists and people who organise events that fight for a better tomorrow. The festival organisers strive to broaden the audience’s horizons and are keen to raise awareness and activate audiences.
This year, Kacper Lisowski’s Judges Under Pressure was screened in one of the competitions. The documentary was recognised as its best production.
Judges Under Pressure tells the story of unwavering judges who defend the Constitution and the separation of powers. One of them is judge Igor Tuleya, who – against external pressure – passes verdicts unfavourable for the government. This makes him enemy number one for the authorities and the face of judicial rebellion for protesting citizens. The film shows the consequences of his uncompromising attitude. We look at the effects political pressure has on his life. At the same time, we are witnessing the extraordinary solidarity shown by both judges and ordinary citizens. Meanwhile the rule of law in Poland is being dismantled in plain sight. Following the ruling of the politicised Constitutional Tribunal on abortion, Poland sees the largest wave of social unrest in its history. Judges take to the streets to stand shoulder to shoulder with citizens in defence of the rule of law.
You can find out more about the festival here.