A film and theatre director. Member of the Cinematography Committee, the European Film Academy granting the Felix Awards, and honorary member of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). From 1989 to1991 he was a member of the Polish Senate. He was the originator of the idea and founder of the Manggha Centre of Japanese Art and Technology in Cracow. Honoured with many orders and prizes, including the Order of the White Eagle. He was the recipient of the French César Award (1982) and an Academy Award (2000) for life‑time achievement. Member of the French Academy, and holder of honorary doctorates from universities in cities including Washington, Bologna, Krakow, Warsaw (Academy of Fine Arts) and Łódź (the Film School).