KULEJ. ALL THAT GLITTERS ISN’T GOLD chronicles the turbulent years of 1964 to 1968 for two-time Olympic gold medalist boxer Jerzy Kulej, and his wife Helena (Michalina Olszańska, THE LURE). Returning from the Tokyo Olympics with his first gold medal, Jerzy (Tomasz Włosok) is a national hero, but the next four years, as he trains for the Mexico City Olympics, are complicated by his vices and the slow liberalization of Poland. Director Xawery Żuławski captures the spirit of the era and the complex dynamics of the Kulej’s marriage, punctuating the drama with spectacular boxing sequences that will satisfy any RAGING BULL or ROCKY fan.

Awards & Nominations

Winner - Audience Award, Polish Film Awards
Winner - Golden Kangaroo, Best Makeup, Polish Film Festival
Nominee - Best Film, Polish Film Festival

Chicago European Union Film Festival Spotlight: Poland | It is our pleasure, with the generous support of the Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in Chicago, to present two weeks of the best new and classic films from Poland and Polish filmmakers. Join us March 7–20, as we present 20 films, including 13 new titles—and 12 Chicago premieres—alongside classics from filmmakers including Krzysztof Kieślowski, Agnieszka Holland, and Andrzej Wajda. Meet filmmakers visiting us from Poland, and enjoy taste from the country through special events and at concessions.

The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu