Feature film debut of Andrzej Żuławski, one the most controversial Polish directors,
hailed as iconoclast, provocateur and visionary.
A film that raised much controversy after its release and was the most widely discussed film
of 1971.
Moving performances by Małgorzata Braunek (a double role) and Leszek Teleszyński.
Michał’s family is murdered before his eyes. By chance he escapes the Germans with his father. He finds refuge in an apartment where he takes care of Marta and helps deliver her baby.
Marta reminds him of his wife and their relationship with Marta replicates his former life with Helena entirely. Michał takes on the unhealthy job of a lice feeder. Marta’s husband was arrested, so Michał arranges an attempt to rescue him, but during the event he is shot...
A war drama set in a loose poetic structure with horror and nightmare themes. A study of the psychological consequences of war. A new take on occupation issues one that becomes
but a background for contemplating extreme danger and universal moral themes – love, fidelity and valor.