An interesting and innovative approach to the paradox of the well-developed German culture as compared to the barbarian cruelty and brutal attempts at imposing dictatorship upon Europe and the whole world. The film is a great illustration of social moods in the first days following the outbreak of World War II. The main character – Garbiel is played spectacularly by Bronisław Pawlik who is just beginning his great career as an actor. The music was composed by Janusz Maksymiuk.
The last day of August, 1939. Two adversaries – a fan of the German spirit – professor Tomicki and an expert on the French culture – professor Dog-Leśniewski are disputing the likelihood of an outbreak of war. Tomicki doubts an armed attack from the side of Germany. Besides having different opinions with Dog, Tomicki doesn’t like the other man for personal and purely egoistic reasons. He envies him his flair for writing and popularity with women. The war begins. Tomicki tries, unsuccessfully, to join the army. The Germans bombard the capital city. During one of the airstrikes he gets close to his neighbor Florentyna while they’re in a shelter. The warfare escalates, human dramas and tragedies abound. Tomicki falls in love with Florentyna and manages to join the army where he proves his courage. He encounters his former rival Dog-Leśniewski. The German war machine destroys everything along its way. Both professors, who used to be idealists, are killed during an airstrike.
Excerpt from the movie
