Magdalena Koleśnik and Kay Greidanus to Lead Finn Szumlas’ Debut Feature ‘Stairway to Earth’ as Production Starts (EXCLUSIVE)

Finn Szumlas’s highly anticipated feature film, “Stairway to Earth,” has commenced principal photography in the Netherlands. This drama weaves together chance encounters, unexpected pregnancies, and human relationships against the vibrant backdrop of Leidens Ontzet celebrations.

Set in present-day Leiden, Netherlands, the story takes its narrative cue from Szumlas’s parents’ true-life romance. The film transplants this tale to a city rich with history and cultural heritage, capturing the raw emotions and choices that shape our lives. Two strangers, Jan, a Dutch gardener, and Luiza, an ambitious Polish professional, find themselves entangled in each other’s lives after a chance encounter at a summer music festival.

This narrative framework is reminiscent of classic films like “Casablanca” or “Brief Encounter.” However, what sets “Stairway to Earth” apart is its deliberate choice to unfold against the Leidens Ontzet celebrations. Szumlas noted in an interview that the street festivities will be captured on Super 16mm, imbuing the film with a tactile quality that mirrors the raw emotions of the characters.

The production team behind “Stairway to Earth” includes prominent international players such as the Netherlands Film Fund and Polish Film Institute, as well as NTR, CoBo, and Creative Europe MEDIA. This collaboration represents a significant effort in bridging international borders and funding streams, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of global filmmaking.

Principal Cast

Magdalena Koleśnik and Kay Greidanus have been cast in leading roles for “Stairway to Earth.” As principal photography gets underway, their performances will bring depth and nuance to the story. The film’s cinematographer, Katja van den Broeke, is utilizing Super 16mm to capture the subtleties of human emotion on screen.

Production Notes

Principal photography has commenced in Leiden, Netherlands, with a focus on capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the Leidens Ontzet celebrations. Szumlas’s personal connection to the story and his vision for the film are being brought to life by an international production team.

The intersection of art and reality is a key theme in “Stairway to Earth.” The film’s exploration of human relationships and choices feels eerily relevant as we navigate our own lives amidst uncertainty and change. By weaving together the personal and the universal, Szumlas’s film offers a nuanced portrayal of our shared humanity.

The final days of principal photography will undoubtedly bring their share of surprises, but one thing is certain: “Stairway to Earth” has already become a cultural touchstone for our times. As this film begins its journey toward the screen, it’s clear that we’re witnessing a testament to the enduring power of human relationships in an ever-changing world.