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Agnieszka Holland’s ‘Franz K.’ Opens in Germany as Poland’s Oscar Entry

Early reviews weigh a kaleidoscopic, daylit portrait that fuses Kafka’s life, writings, afterlife.

Overview

  • The 127-minute Czech production stars Idan Weiss as Franz Kafka with Peter Kurth as the domineering father, opening in German cinemas on 23 October.
  • Holland rejects a conventional biopic for a non-linear collage that intercuts biography, literary scenes and later reception.
  • Reviewers note a bright visual palette that stands in deliberate contrast to Steven Soderbergh’s 1991 black-and-white take.
  • Coverage highlights Holocaust resonances, references to Kafka’s family and Max Brod, and pointed scenes about the commodification of Kafka’s legacy.
  • WELT reports that the film has been selected as Poland’s submission for the Best International Feature Film category, as critics divide between strong praise and sharp critiques.