Krakow Films

Satya Mandavalli
Jan 29
3 min read

Krakow History, Films and Locations

Kraków's rich and often turbulent history has made it a favorite backdrop for filmmakers. The movies available range from Hollywood epics to intimate Polish dramas, covering everything from medieval legends to the scars of the Holocaust and the Communist era.

The Holocaust and World War II

This is the most common historical period captured on film in Kraków, often focusing on the Kazimierz and Podgórze districts.

Schindler's List (1993): The most famous film associated with the city. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, who saved over 1,000 Jews. It was filmed almost entirely on location in Kraków, including the real enamel factory and the streets of Kazimierz.
The Pianist (2002): While primarily set in Warsaw, director Roman Polański (who is a survivor of the Kraków Ghetto) brought a deeply personal perspective to this story of survival.
Katyń (2007): Directed by Andrzej Wajda, this film deals with the 1940 massacre of Polish officers. Significant portions of the film, particularly those focusing on the families left behind, are set in Kraków.
The Eagle Pharmacy (2015): A poignant documentary/short film exploring the role of Tadeusz Pankiewicz’s pharmacy, the only one allowed to operate within the Kraków Ghetto, which became a hub for resistance and aid.

The Communist Era & Industrial History

Kraków's post-war transition is best captured through the lens of the "Polish Film School."

Man of Marble (1976): A masterpiece by Andrzej Wajda that critiques the Stalinist era. Much of the film is set in Nowa Huta, the industrial district built on the outskirts of Kraków as a "socialist utopia" for steelworkers.
The Innocent Sorcerers (1960): Also by Wajda, this film offers a snapshot of the romantic and restless lives of young people in Kraków during the late 1950s.

Biographies and Legend

Karol: A Man Who Became Pope (2005): A biographical film about Pope John Paul II (Karol Wojtyła), who served as the Archbishop of Kraków. It depicts his life in the city during the Nazi occupation and the subsequent Communist regime.
The Wawel Dragon (2010): A documentary/short exploring the mythical foundations of the city, focusing on the legend of the dragon that supposedly lived in the cave beneath Wawel Hill.
Copernicus (1973): Depicts the life of the famous astronomer who studied at Kraków’s Jagiellonian University, showcasing the city’s role as a Renaissance center of learning.

Other Notable Mentions

The Double Life of Veronique (1991): While more of a psychological drama than a history lesson, Krzysztof Kieślowski uses Kraków’s Main Market Square for a pivotal, atmospheric scene that captures the city's timeless, haunting beauty.
The Wedding (1972): Based on the famous play by Stanisław Wyspiański, this film is a deep dive into Polish national identity and the social tensions in Kraków at the turn of the 20th century.

Indian Movies Filmed in Krakow

1. Bangistan (2015)

This movie utilized Krakow’s Old Town most extensively, integrating the landmarks directly into the plot.

Main Market Square (Rynek Główny):
St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki):
The Barbican (Barbakan):
Kazimierz District:

2. Aazaan (2011)

A high-octane action thriller that used the Old Town for chase sequences rather than just songs.

Plac Szczepański:
Floriańska Street:
Mały Rynek (Small Market Square):
Pijarska Street:

3. Rhythm (2016)

A musical romance that focused on the academic and picturesque side of the Old Town.

Main Market Square:
Jagiellonian University (Collegium Maius):
Bernatka Footbridge (Kładka Ojca Bernatka):

4. Bawaal (2023)

The movie starring Sridevi's daughter, Janhvi Kapoor, which was shot in Krakow. Here are the quick details:

Starring: Janhvi Kapoor and Varun Dhawan.
Krakow Locations: The film features extensive scenes in the Main Market Square and the streets of the Old Town.
Plot Context: In the movie, the main characters visit Krakow as part of a "World War II trail" honeymoon, which also includes a significant and somber segment filmed near Auschwitz.