The Winner 2011
In "The Winner (2011)" by Wiesław Saniewski, Oliver—a gifted Polish-American pianist—finds himself in a high-stakes bind after abruptly ending a European tour. Saddled with a crushing debt of €250,000 to tour organizers, he's desperate to return home in triumph.
Director: Wiesław Saniewski
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Winner (2011) about?
The film follows Oliver, a young Polish-American pianist who owes €250,000 after cutting short his European tour. Teaming up with a retired math teacher obsessed with horse racing, he risks everything on a high-stakes wager to settle his debt and restore his reputation.
Who directed The Winner?
The Winner was directed by Wiesław Saniewski, a Polish filmmaker known for blending drama with understated humor.
Who stars in The Winner?
The film features a standout cast including Paweł Szajda as Oliver, Janusz Gajos as the racing enthusiast, and supporting roles from Grażyna Barszczewska, Wojciech Pszoniak, and Marta Żmuda-Trzebiatowska.
Is The Winner (2011) worth watching?
While not widely rated on IMDb, The Winner offers a compelling character-driven drama with a fresh twist on the underdog story. Its blend of wit, tension, and emotional depth makes it a solid pick for fans of character-focused films.
How long is The Winner?
The Winner runs for 111 minutes.
About The Winner (2011) — A Polish pianist's desperate gamble for redemption
In "The Winner (2011)" by Wiesław Saniewski, Oliver—a gifted Polish-American pianist—finds himself in a high-stakes bind after abruptly ending a European tour. Saddled with a crushing debt of €250,000 to tour organizers, he's desperate to return home in triumph. His unexpected ally is a retired math teacher and racing enthusiast, portrayed with wit by Janusz Gajos, who dreams of reclaiming lost pride through a long-shot bet. Together, the mismatched pair navigates a world of chance, ambition, and second chances, where luck may be the only currency that truly matters.
The film blends sharp character chemistry with the gritty atmosphere of underdog stories, exploring themes of redemption and the blurred line between skill and fortune. Shot through with dry humor and poignant moments, "The Winner (2011)" captures the emotional weight of chasing dreams against impossible odds—all set to the backdrop of restless European streets and the clatter of a piano longing to play again.