Directed by Magnus von Horn, drama, 105 min, eng subtitles, 16+
Written by Magnus von Horn
With Magdalena Koleśnik, Aleksandra Konieczna, Julian Świeżewski, Zbigniew Zamachowski
The second feature by Swedish-born Poland-based director Magnus von Horn, Sweat, which was includede in the selection of this year’s Cannes festival, recounts three days in the life of influencer, self-obsessed fitness star and motivator Sylwia Zając (a wonderful performance by Magdalena Koleśnik, debuting on the big screen), avid user of social media - which has turned her into a celebrity. As we share this time of highs and lows filled with workout routines, meeting fans and posting with her Instagram followers, we observe Sylwia revealing her private life and emotions as a way of living and earning money, while gravitating on the border of authenticity and fakeness.
Although she has hundreds of thousands of followers, is surrounded by loyal employees and admired by acquaintances, Sylwia is longing for intimacy, closeness and romantic life since her only true companion is Jackson, her dog. When one of her followers takes a step too far, her Instagram-perfect life is put to test as a rattling stalker starts to follow her in real life, something which will eventually make her realise new truths about herself.
A contemporary story on modern celebrities and body worship. In this closely, well observed psychological portrait, von Horn manages to capture genuine feelings and emotions with authenticity and lightness while looking closely and without judgments at human relations and interactions in a somewhat dehumanised world.
The film is presented as the Closing Film of CinEast 2020.
Partner of the Awards Ceremony