Life Feels Good

Mateusz grows up with a sharp mind and a big heart, but his body betrays him. He lives with his devoted mother and father, and his protected world seems secure until circumstances push him into an institution where his condition is misread and his needs overlooked. The film follows his daily life with cerebral palsy, showing how he communicates through eye contact, facial expressions, and careful finger movements when possible. It paints a portrait of a young man who refuses to be defined by limitation, finding moments of laughter amid routine, dignity amid neglect, and hope amid doubt. Anchored by Dawid Ogrodnik's intense portrayal, the story remains a grounded look at resilience and a stubborn refusal to give up.

Directed by Maciej Pieprzyca, Life Feels Good premiered in 2013 as a standout Polish drama. It is inspired by the real life of Mateusz, and features a performance that drew praise for its depth and honesty. The film balances intimate moments with social critique while letting Mateusz's inner life shine.

The film helped shine a light on disability representation in contemporary Polish cinema, with Dawid Ogrodnik's performance becoming a touchstone for portraying cerebral palsy on screen. Its grounded, patient approach stimulated conversations about what it means to be seen and valued, both in art and in life, and it invites viewers to rethink stereotypes around access to education, work, and meaningful relationships.

Critics hailed the film for its humane restrained storytelling and Dawid Ogrodnik's standout performance. It foregrounds resilience, family love, and the slow process of finding voice and agency within a system that can misread those who cannot speak. The result is emotionally honest and quietly empowering, with life rendered as meaningful effort.

Box office details for Life Feels Good are not listed in the provided data, but the film circulated through festivals and earned praise from critics more than chasing blockbuster numbers.