Bitter Love

Sweden, Finland, Poland2020documentary86'Konkurs dokumentalny (2020)

A cruise along the Volga river may be an opportunity to heal one’s broken heart, experience a romance or repair a failing relationship. A group of Russian men and women, primarily in an advanced age, are taking a rest from daily hardships, enjoying the attractions of the trip and flirting profusely. The film presents a gallery of common and uncommon characters, often with painful experiences, who never cease to hope. With tenderness, the camera captures their big and small dramas rooting for their efforts to find true love.

directed by
Jerzy Śladkowski, portret reżysera
Jerzy Śladkowski

Born in 1945 in Radom. He is a graduate of the University of Toruń (Classical Studies) and the University of Warsaw (Photography, Radio and TV). He was a reporter, TV producer and director until his departure to Sweden in 1983, since when he has been working as a documentary and feature film director. He cooperates with Nordic national broadcasters, as well as ZDF and ARTE channels. His filmography includes 50 documentaries. He is a laureate of numerous awards including the European Film Award for “Vendetta” (1996), the IDA Award for “Swedish Tango” (1999), the Golden Dove for “Vodka Factory” (2011) and the VPRO IDFA Award for “Don Juan” (2016).

cinematography
Wojciech Staroń
script
Jerzy Śladkowski
music
Timo Hietala
sound
Shamil Ismailov
editing
Jakub Śladkowski
production
Antonio Russo Merenda (Ginestra Film), Lucyna Kowalska, Dariusz Kowalski (Ragusa Film), Ulla Simonen, Ilona Tolmunen (Made)
Photo
Kadr z filmu Bitter Love
Trailer