The Knot

In the Podlasie countryside of the late 1950s, Zośka grows up marked by the Polish plait: a symbol of shame and rural fears. Hoping that obedience will bring her love, she tries to escape the family stigma. Years later, she realises that her mother’s fate has befallen her. When her daughter’s future is in danger, for the first time, Zośka stands up to the world that taught her to be quiet.

Directed by Izabela Zubrycka, The Knot leans on a strong ensemble — Alicja Matusiak, Sebastian Stankiewicz, Aleksandra Bożek — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 0.