Bitcoin FilmFest: Lights, Camera, Halving in Warsaw

Bitcoin enthusiasts from different parts of the world gathered in Warsaw, Poland for the second edition of the Bitcoin FilmFest. The event showcased various films including a biopic of Carl Menger, the founder of the Austrian school of economics and considered the “grandfather of Bitcoin.” Other films focused on debunking misconceptions about Bitcoin and its reputation as a “dirty coin.” The festival took place in Warsaw’s iconic Palace of Culture and Science, a symbol of the country’s troubled history under communist rule. The choice of venue was fitting as the event aimed to educate people about Bitcoin and promote a decentralized economy outside of government-controlled fiat systems.

The festival also featured a documentary highlighting the risks of trusted third parties and the story of decentralization. It showcased Nicolas Dorier’s BTCPay Server, which played a crucial role in advancing Bitcoin acceptance globally. In addition to feature films, short films and mini-documentaries were also shown, such as one about Bitcoin Ekasi’s partnership with a local surfing group in South Africa to create opportunities with Bitcoin.

The event went beyond just showcasing films about Bitcoin. Discussions revolved around what makes a film a “Bitcoiner movie,” whether it includes Bitcoin or aligns with the values of decentralization and independence. The festival included satellite meetups, networking events, and leisure activities for all participants, including children.

One of the satellite events was “Sats4Flats,” a private gathering for Bitcoin and real estate professionals. The event focused on discussions about Bitcoin, real estate, and tokenization. Participants also shared investment opportunities and explored how to make purchases using Bitcoin. Sats4Flats also marked the launch of a new Bitcoin real estate community in Poland.

A major highlight of the festival was the Bitcoin halving, an event that occurs every four years and reduces the block reward for miners, establishing Bitcoin as a scarce and deflationary asset. Attendees celebrated the halving at the “European Halving Party.” The Bitcoin community was optimistic about the event, given recent successes in the industry, such as the approval of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds and Bitcoin reaching new all-time highs.

Many Bitcoiners at the event expressed their belief that the current system is broken and see Bitcoin as a solution. Attendees shared personal stories of how Bitcoin has enabled them to build wealth in a system that no longer benefits the average person.

Organizers of the Bitcoin FilmFest plan to keep growing the event and build a culture around Bitcoin in Warsaw. They aim to foster networking between filmmakers in the traditional film industry and those interested in Bitcoin. The long-term goal is to establish the festival as a platform for filmmakers exploring Bitcoin-related themes.

The Bitcoin FilmFest in Warsaw brought together Bitcoin enthusiasts for a weekend of films, networking, and activities. The event showcased various films, including a biopic of Carl Menger, and debunked misconceptions about Bitcoin. It also featured discussions on the current system’s flaws and the role of Bitcoin as a solution. The festival highlighted the Bitcoin halving and included satellite events like “Sats4Flats” focused on Bitcoin and real estate. The organizers aim to continue growing the event and fostering a culture around Bitcoin in Warsaw.