Wojciech Staron is a Polish film director and screenwriter. He is best known for his work in the critically acclaimed drama films, The Woman in Gold (2009) and The Other Side of Hope (2012).
Born in Warsaw, Poland in 1974, Staron developed an early interest in film. At the age of sixteen, he began attending film school and developed a passion for directing. After graduating, Staron moved to London to pursue filmmaking and eventually became a cinematographer for the BBC.
In 2002, Staron returned to Poland and began directing his own short films and documentaries. His early works included the documentary film, No Place Like Home (2005), which earned him the Golden Lion award at the Gdynia Film Festival.
In 2009, Staron made his feature film debut with The Woman in Gold. The film tells the story of a Jewish family’s struggle to reclaim a painting stolen by the Nazis during World War II. The Woman in Gold was a critical success, winning the Audience Award at the Gdynia Film Festival and the Grand Prix at the Istanbul International Film Festival.
In 2012, Staron released his second feature film, The Other Side of Hope. The film follows a Syrian refugee as he attempts to build a new life in Helsinki. The Other Side of Hope was a major success, earning the Silver Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival and the Best Screenplay award at the Polish Film Festival.
Staron continues to work in both film and television. His most recent work includes the feature film, The Last Train (2015), and the television series, The White Room (2016).
Throughout his career, Staron has been praised for his unique visual style and thoughtful narratives. He has become an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers across Poland and beyond.
