Set to arrive in UK cinemas on 7th March, Woman of… marks a bold and deeply personal collaboration between Polish filmmakers Małgorzata Szumowska and Michał Englert. Shortlisted as Poland’s Oscar contender for Best International Feature, the film explores the life of Aniela (Małgorzata Hajewska), a trans woman navigating decades of sweeping social and political change in post-communist Poland.
Expanding on Szumowska and Englert’s reputation for empathetic storytelling, Woman of… spotlights an underrepresented community. Aniela’s journey mirrors Poland’s own transition from Soviet influence to a modern Europe—an evolution that has brought new freedoms but still leaves many individuals on the margins. By framing the story of a trans woman in a society often slow to embrace LGBTQ+ rights, the film poses timely questions about identity, acceptance, and the cost of living authentically.
Notably, Woman of… features numerous trans and non-binary cast members in both trans and cis roles. This inclusive approach lends a tangible authenticity to Aniela’s emotional struggle. In a nod to iconic Polish director Andrzej Wajda, the title references his seminal works Man of Marble and Man of Iron, aligning this contemporary narrative with a tradition of Polish cinema that challenges societal norms.
While the film’s universal themes resonate anywhere, the UK release particularly appeals to British audiences with Polish heritage and those invested in queer cinema. By focusing on the hardships, resilience, and ultimately the dignity of its protagonist, Woman of… stands as a powerful human drama that crosses cultural barriers. It promises to spark conversation, provoke empathy, and underscore the urgent need for legal and social reforms—both in Poland and beyond.
