PRIX EUROPA
Best Television Documentary Programme of the Year 2009
Donated by the European Commission Directorate General of Communication

Chemo / Chemia
Telewizja Polska - TVP SA, Poland;
by: Pawel Lozinski (author/director/
producer), Barbara Pawlowska (commissioning editor);
produced by TVP SA - Channel 1,
co-produced by Pawel Lozinski Film Production

Synopsis
The filmmakers observe patients of an oncology clinic receiving chemotherapy, partly in intimate close-ups. Their hours-long conversations held to spend the time before the next medical session is over bring the picture of ordinary life suddenly interrupted by an incomprehensible, unrecognized force overshadowing everything.

Citation by the Jury
"This documentary once again underlines how important it is that we continue to celebrate and commiserate the human condition in our work. The sensitivities displayed both on the other and this side of the camera should make us all in this hall proud of our commitment to documentary film making.

Dying of cancer, contending with cancer is something of which most in this hall have comprehension. It is a sad traumatic experience and yes, when we watched the winning entry, personal sadness intruded into our viewing.

And yet, by films end the director and his team had impressed on us the strengths, wisdom and humour of those who attempt to defeat or come to terms with this hideous and deadly disease."