The documentary Trains, directed by Maciej J. Drygas, has earned two prestigious nominations at the Critics Choice Documentary Awards, presented by the association of American and Canadian film critics. The film was recognized in the categories Best Archival Documentary and Best Score, composed by Paweł Szymański. This marks the first time a Polish documentary has been nominated for these awards.
The announcement of the nominations coincides with the film’s theatrical release on the U.S. West Coast. From October 16–21, Trains will screen in Los Angeles, featuring Q&A sessions with the director and producer Vita Želakevičiūtė. Earlier, the film premiered on the East Coast, where the creators met audiences after several screenings in New York. EPF Media handles U.S. distribution. This year’s Critics Choice Documentary Awards ceremony, where the winners will be announced, will take place on November 9 at The Edison Ballroom in Manhattan.
Trains is a deeply personal journey through the 20th century, composed entirely of archival footage. The dialogue-free film captures both the beauty and bitterness of the past, immersing viewers in a powerful emotional experience where awe and sorrow intertwine. The documentary has already received the Grand Prize and Best Editing Award at last year’s IDFA festival in Amsterdam.
The U.S. theatrical release also supports the film’s campaign for the Academy Awards in the Best Documentary Feature category. International promotion is managed by IKH Pictures Promotion, and the Oscar campaign is co-funded by the Polish Film Institute.
The full list of nominees for this year’s Critics Choice Documentary Awards is available on the event’s website.
