In a compelling cinematic journey, the Opoka Foundation, under the auspices of the Polish Bishop Conference, presents "Knight," a riveting 57-minute documentary delving into the life of Saint Maximilian Kolbe. Renowned for his role as a martyr, missionary, inventor, and founder of the Militia of the Immaculata, Father Kolbe's legacy is vividly portrayed against the backdrop of Polish history.
Opoka Foundation president and film producer Father Marek Gancarczyk emphasized the enduring impact of Saint Maximilian Kolbe's life, drawing parallels with the recently beatified Ulma family. Father Gancarczyk highlighted Father Kolbe's resilience in the face of adversity, navigating the treacherous terrain of the German death camp at Auschwitz like a valiant knight.
Director Michal Szymanowicz shed light on the multifaceted nature of Father Maximilian's character, stating, "For most people, Father Maximilian remains primarily a martyr. Meanwhile, his rich biography may inspire many people. In all areas he dealt with, he did not recognize compromise."
The film captures key locations associated with the holy martyr, including the monastery of the Franciscan Fathers in Niepokalanów, Harmęże, and the Museum of the Birthplace of Saint Maximilian Kolbe. Utilizing original exhibits such as the bicycle on which Saint Maximilian rode and numerous photographs, the documentary aims to authentically recreate his life.
"Knight" premiered on October 13 in Warsaw, receiving acclaim during the International Film Festival Maksymiliany in Wrocław. EWTN Poland Editor-in-Chief Piotr Pietrus noted the film's positive reception and anticipated its appeal to global audiences, given the historical context of Saint Maximilian's life.
Archbishop Stanislaw Gądecki emphasized the universal significance of Saint Maximilian's life, stating, "The life of Saint Maximilian is a signpost for every Christian," urging individuals to embrace selfless service as a transformative act aligned with Christ's teachings.
Following the success of Opoka Foundation's previous film about Blessed Stefan Wyszynski, Father Piotr Wiśniowski, spiritual supervisor of EWTN Poland, expressed optimism about reaching a broad audience. Plans include translating the documentary into English, Spanish, and German, featuring insights from notable figures like George Weigel and Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller.
"Knight" is set to broadcast on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), reaching nearly 400 million households in 150 countries, offering a global audience the opportunity to delve into the extraordinary life of Saint Maximilian Kolbe.