The Queen and the Smokehouse

Scottish Premiere of The Queen and the Smokehouse from Borscht Film ClubThe Queen and the Smokehouse is an intimate, atmospheric journey to the Polish Baltic coast, where wind, salt and smoke shape everyday life. The film opened the 65th Krakow Film Festival, introducing audiences to Miecia, the legendary figure behind Łeba’s iconic smokehouse. For forty years she built a place defined by craft, character and community, becoming a beloved symbol of the town. As her health begins to shift, she must confront who she is beyond the work that has shaped her entire life.The film captures disappearing traditions, the passage of time and the strength of women who carry both ambition and responsibility. The Baltic coast becomes a vivid presence, reflecting a passing era of independent seaside businesses and spirited female entrepreneurs.Iga Lis’s debut has received major acclaim, including an ORŁY Polish Film Awards nomination, the Opening Night at Krakow Film Festival, the Jantar Award for Best Cinematography and the Audience Award at Sopot Film Festival.The screening includes short films presented with Scottish Documentary Institute, including Community Theatre, nominated for this year’s BAFTA Awards.The Queen and the Smokehouse / Bałtyk, dir. Iga Lis
Poland, 2025, 77 min.Language: Polish with English subtitles
Rating: 15+