Polish cinema has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century, with significant contributions from directors like Andrzej Wajda and Krzysztof Kieślowski. The industry gained international recognition in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly through the Polish Film School, which focused on realism and social issues. In recent years, Polish films have continued to receive acclaim, with works such as Ida and Cold War winning prestigious awards. The country has a vibrant film festival scene, including the Gdynia Film Festival, which showcases new talent and celebrates Polish storytelling in cinema.