Several star guests, including Viggo Mortensen, Johnny Depp and Vittorio Storaro, had already confirmed their in-person attendance at the festival, which was scheduled to take place in Torun, 14 – 24 November 2020. The festival said it had been expecting 1,000 cinematographers and film students from around the world.

Festival director Marek Żydowicz said in a statement: “The decision has filled us with pain, but also understanding. At the same time, we appeal to all creators of culture to find strength and survive the necessary restrictions. Only in this way can we prevent the suffering and death of many people.”