Tribute to Science-Fiction Genius, Stanislaw Lem in Honor of his 100th Birthday
Screening of the short film PRZEKLADANIEC, directed by Andrzej Wajda, and based on the short story by Stanislaw Lem. The film tells the story of twin brothers, both race car drivers, who are involved in an accident. Despite the difficult subject matter, the film is a comedy and a rare case in which Lem actually liked the cinematic version of one of his works.
Following the screening, a panel will discuss Lem's works; panel participants include Dr. Aharon Hauptman, the Hebrew translator of SOLARIS, director Ari Folman (who adapted Lem's THE FUTUROLOGICAL CONGRESS to the screen), and Polish author, Wojciech Orlinski, who wrote a biography about Lem.
Fantasy novelist Hagar Yanai (author of THE LEVIATHAN OF BABYLON, which was translated into many languages, including Polish, and winner of three Geffen Awards for Israeli Fantasy) will serve as panel moderator.
Stanislaw Lem (1921-2006) – Polish writer of Jewish descent, is considered one of the geniuses of science fiction. As opposed to his predecessors in the field, Len never tried to present scientific solutions (hard-core sci-fi) in a speculative world or heroes who fight evil aliens to protect princesses from Mars. Lem wrote with great humor (sometimes cynically) about the inability of humans to understand themselves (SOLARIS) and the world. His well-known books include THE CYBIRIAD, EDEN, and THE STAR DIARIES.
Aharon Hauptman – Researcher and lecturer of Technology and Society Foresight and Future Studies. One of the founders and editors of Science Fiction Fantasy Journal 2000 (in print since the 1980s, currently available online), and founder of the Israeli Association for Science Fiction and Fantasy. Translator of SOLARIS by Stanislaw Lem from Polish into Hebrew.
Ari Folman – Award-winning film, theater, and television director (Golden Globes, Cannes, César Award, and Oscar nominee). Folman directed THE CONGRESS (2013) based on Lem’s novel. Folman is known for his unique use of animation to present complex human issues, as can be seen from WALTZ WITH BASHIR to WHERE IS ANNE FRANK.
Wojciech Orlinski – Polish journalist and author. Publications range from topics such as Polish cinema, why the internet will not change the world for the better, and travels throughout the United States. Orlinski, considered an expert on Polish science fiction, wrote a number of important stories on this subject. His biography about Lem categorized him as one of the greatest experts on the life and works of this author. He is a well-known blogger and can be read in Polish (here>>>).
The event will be held in collaboration with the Polish Institute, Tel Aviv.