Wałęsa: Man of Hope

Directed by the world-famous Polish filmmaker Andrzej Wajda, Wałęsa: Man of Hope tells the story of Lech Wałęsa, an electrician at the Gdańsk Shipyard, who emerged as a leading figure in the struggle against communist rule in Poland, and – after winning the 1990 election – became the country’s first democratically elected president since 1926.

Set against the political and social upheavals of 1970s and 1980s Poland, the film traces the rise of Solidarity (Solidarność), the very first independent, non-communist trade union in the Soviet bloc that united nearly 10 million people and became a powerful force for democratic change. What began as a movement for workers’ rights grew into a historic challenge to communist rule, helping pave the way for Poland’s democratic transformation and the collapse of communism in Central and Eastern Europe.

Through Wałęsa’s personal journey and family life, Wajda explores the personal sacrifices, difficult choices and immense courage involved in confronting an authoritarian system. The film captures a pivotal moment in Poland’s history and highlights the power of solidarity, civic engagement and collective action in shaping a nation’s future.

Presented as part of Critical Signals in Wellington, this screening invites audiences to reflect on the enduring importance and value of democracy and the responsibility we all share in safeguarding it. Poland’s experience offers a powerful starting point for a wider conversation about what happens when people come together to defend their rights, challenge injustice and demand change.

What does it take to stand up to an authoritarian regime? Can freedom be attained without solidarity? And what can the Solidarity movement teach us today about the relationship between collective action and democracy?

The Polish Embassy is pleased to support this screening and to share a story that remains deeply relevant beyond Poland’s borders.

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Screening starts at 6.00pm, doors open with nibbles and drinks 5.00pm. Movie rating pending.

A representative of the Polish Embassy will briefly introduce the film and reflect on its historical significance and enduring relevance.

Type: Screening