Agnieszka Holland Explores Kafka’s Legacy in New Film “Franz”

Polish filmmaker Agnieszka Holland has unveiled her latest project, “Franz,” a film that delves into the life and works of the iconic Czech writer Franz Kafka. Known for tackling complex subjects, Holland presents a narrative that transcends the traditional biopic format, reflecting the fragmented essence of Kafka’s life and his enigmatic prose.

“Franz” had its world premiere as a special presentation at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and is set to compete at the prestigious San Sebastián International Film Festival. The film features Idan Weiss in the role of Kafka and Peter Kurth as his father, showcasing Holland’s ambitious vision to introduce Kafka’s timeless themes to contemporary audiences.

Holland’s relationship with Kafka began in her adolescence, and she previously adapted his work “The Trial” for Polish television in 1981. She describes Kafka as a “fragile younger brother,” noting that his exploration of dehumanization resonates with today’s societal challenges.

In discussing Kafka’s relevance, Holland emphasizes the existential questions his work raises: “What are the rules that govern our lives—legal, political, philosophical, religious?” She believes that Kafka’s cryptic narratives allow each generation to interpret them anew, making his insights more pertinent today than they were decades ago.

The filmmaker sought to recapture the emotional connection she felt as a teenager discovering Kafka’s works. Holland aimed to strip away the layers of academic interpretation and commercialization that have obscured Kafka’s humanity. She acknowledges that Kafka’s essence often evades definitive interpretation, stating, “Whenever you think you’ve nailed him down, he slips away.”

Holland’s stylistic approach mirrors Kafka’s fragmented storytelling. She weaves together elements from Kafka’s fiction, his letters, and episodes from his life, creating a mosaic that reflects his complex reality. This method allowed her to rediscover the freshness of her initial engagement with Kafka’s work.

Young audiences today find resonance in Kafka’s exploration of alienation and the struggle to communicate in an incomprehensible world. Holland notes that his themes of searching for freedom resonate deeply with contemporary youth, who often feel isolated by societal structures.

Casting Idan Weiss as Kafka was crucial to the film’s authenticity. Weiss, a relatively unknown German stage actor, was chosen for his unique sensibility and his ability to embody Kafka’s essence. Holland describes him as someone who carried Kafka’s “soul,” which was vital to the film’s truthfulness.

Reflecting on Kafka’s status as a cultural brand, Holland believes that he would have been unsettled by the commodification of his image. She asserts that Kafka had no desire for fame and preferred his work to be recognized in a state of mystery. While acknowledging Kafka’s dark humor, she emphasizes its importance in the film, adding depth to his character.

Holland opted to stage Kafka’s short story “In the Penal Colony” for its vivid visualization and prophetic nature. The story’s critique of institutional cruelty echoes the violence of the 20th century and remains relevant in today’s news landscape. Holland believes that Kafka would have identified the cynicism and brutality present in the modern world, reflecting on how he might have responded to contemporary issues.

Creating “Franz” has deepened Holland’s connection to Kafka, allowing her to explore his narrative in a non-linear fashion, capturing his truth in fragments. Looking ahead, Holland is considering a film about Jerzy Kosiński, the Polish-American writer whose complex legacy of fame and controversy remains significant today.

Through “Franz,” Holland invites audiences to reassess Kafka’s enduring impact and the relevance of his work in today’s complex socio-political landscape.