Poland's prestigious New Horizons International Film Festival has announced the appointment of Dorota Lech, a distinguished film curator and industry professional, as its new director. Lech, who brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), is poised to lead the festival into a new era, emphasizing global cinematic perspectives and strengthening ties with Central, Eastern, and Southeastern European cinema. Her deep roots in Polish culture and a lifelong connection to film are expected to shape the festival's future direction, building upon its established legacy of artistic integrity and audience engagement.
Lech's appointment signifies a continuation of the festival's commitment to artistic excellence and innovation. With her background as a curator, script consultant, and writer, she is uniquely positioned to nurture emerging talent and introduce diverse cinematic voices to international audiences. The upcoming 26th edition of the festival, scheduled for July 23 to August 2, 2026, will be a significant milestone under her leadership, promising a dynamic program that reflects her vision and passion for film.
Dorota Lech's Vision for New Horizons
Dorota Lech's new role as director of the New Horizons International Film Festival marks a significant moment for the acclaimed event. Her extensive background, including a decade at the Toronto International Film Festival where she spearheaded the Discovery program and specialized in cinema from Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, positions her as an ideal leader. Lech’s curatorial prowess extends to prestigious institutions such as the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures and the Museum of the Moving Image, demonstrating her profound understanding of global film. Her return to her native Poland to helm the festival is driven by a desire to leverage her international network and knowledge to further elevate films from this region on the global stage, bridging cultural divides through the art of cinema. This appointment is seen as a strategic move to infuse the festival with fresh perspectives while honoring its foundational principles.
Lech's personal journey deeply intertwines with her professional aspirations for the festival. Having immigrated to Canada as a child, she developed an intimate connection with Polish culture through its cinema, which she describes as her "home away from home." This personal narrative fuels her dedication to the New Horizons Festival, an event she has long admired and whose ethos she plans to uphold with unwavering integrity. Her vision encompasses continuing the festival’s tradition of uplifting artists and engaging its dedicated audience, while also fostering professional and personal growth within the cinematic landscape. She views this new challenge as an exciting adventure that will undoubtedly lead to innovative programming and a richer experience for filmmakers and attendees alike, reinforcing the festival’s reputation as a vital platform for world cinema.
Expanding Global Reach and Collaborative Leadership
Under Dorota Lech’s leadership, the New Horizons International Film Festival aims to solidify its global presence and reinforce its commitment to collaborative efforts. Lech is set to work closely with a predominantly female curatorial team, including co-artistic directors Małgorzata Sadowska and Ewa Szabłowska, as well as Weronika Czołnowska, who will co-develop the industry program. This includes the notable Polish Days event, crucial for showcasing Polish cinema to international buyers and distributors. Furthermore, her collaboration with Ula Śniegowska, director of the affiliated American Film Festival, highlights a strategic approach to cross-cultural exchange and partnership. This collective leadership model, encompassing a diverse and dedicated team, underscores the festival’s ambition to foster a supportive and dynamic environment for cinematic exploration and industry development, enhancing its reputation as a hub for innovation and artistic integrity.
The festival's founder, Roman Gutek, has expressed strong confidence in Dorota Lech’s capabilities, citing her extensive curatorial experience, international connections, and collaborative spirit as key factors that will ensure the festival’s continued success and evolution. Gutek’s endorsement reflects a shared vision for the festival’s future, one that honors its rich history of storytelling and artistic craftsmanship while embracing new talent and potential. Lech’s leadership is expected to inspire Polish filmmakers and resonate with the broader film community, reinforcing Poland's significant contribution to global cinema. The upcoming 26th edition of the festival, scheduled from July 23 to August 2, 2026, is anticipated to be a testament to this renewed vision, promising an enriching and impactful experience for all participants and attendees.