The Nest

(Gniazdo)


1974   >   historical/ biographical/ political

A story about the beginnings of Poland, combining the features of period and psychological film.

A great performance by Wojciech Pszoniak, whose portrayal of Mieszko I differs from the common perceptions and stereotypes.

The film depicts the process of political changes that enabled the transformation of poorly developed Slavic tribes into a state capable of resisting external enemies.

On the night before the Battle of Cedynia, Mieszko, the prince of the Polans, is in suffering because of an unknown disease. In the fever-induced visions, he goes back in time and reminisces on the events that led him to the throne. As a young man, Mieszko opposed the policy of isolation advanced by his father. Following the death of Ziemomysł, he took power by deceit and force. All his actions were aimed at creating a state that would matter on the European scene. Despite this, the awareness that he has been acting against his father's will continues to torment him. Only after making peace with his past Mieszko becomes able to lead his forces to victory in battle, thus thwarting Germany's expansion plans.


Crew:

director
Jan Rybkowski
script
Aleksander Ścibor-Rylski
d.o.p.
Marek Nowicki
designer
Wojciech Krysztofiak
costumes
Magdalena Tesławska
editor
Wiesława Otocka
music
Jerzy Maksymiuk
cast
Wojciech Pszoniak, Marek Bargiełowski,
Franciszek Pieczka, Wanda Neumann,
Bolesław Płotnicki
Materials: SD
Length: 94’

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