Dutch filmmaker Finn Szumlas has commenced principal photography on his directorial debut, “Stairway to Earth,” with production underway in the Netherlands for a five-week shoot. The film stars Polish actress Magdalena Koleśnik, known for her role in “Sweat,” alongside Dutch actor Kay Greidanus from “Dit Zijn Wij.” Their characters are two strangers who reconnect following a brief encounter at a summer music festival and must navigate a crucial life decision within a single day.
The narrative is grounded in Szumlas’ personal history, drawing inspiration from how his own Polish father and Danish mother met. Set in contemporary Leiden, Netherlands, the story centers on Jan and Luiza, who reunite at a medical clinic where Luiza is scheduled for a pregnancy termination procedure. As they spend their final day together amid the historic streets and festive celebrations of Leidens Ontzet, the two individuals from vastly different backgrounds begin contemplating an unexpected future together.
The production brings together an experienced creative team, with cinematography by Katja van den Broeke and a script co-written by Szumlas and Olga Ponjee. Key producers include Edwin Goldman, Petra Goedings, and notably Ewa Puszczyńska, whose production credits span acclaimed films such as “Cold War” and “Ida.” The project has secured support from multiple institutions, including the Netherlands Film Fund, Polish Film Institute, and Creative Europe MEDIA, with Dutch public broadcaster NTR serving as a co-production partner.
Originally reported by Variety →
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