Colonel Kwiatkowski
Colonel Kwiatkowski

Colonel Kwiatkowski

1996Movie123 minPolish

Military doctor Kwiatkowski, serving in a barracks hospital on the Western Territories, is rewarded with a week’s leave after successfully operating on Colonel Kiziora of the UB. He and his friend steal a truck bound for Warsaw, where among the ruins of his former home he meets his prewar neighbor Krysia, instantly falls in love, and, after a brawl with a Russian officer at a dance in the surviving “Polonia” hotel, pretends to be a high-ranking UB colonel to save face.

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Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Roman PolanskiGenres: Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

A disgraced former colonel, Kwiatkowski, attempts to rebuild his life after a tumultuous period. He becomes entangled in a complex web of personal vendettas and old grudges, forcing him to confront his past actions and their consequences. The film explores themes of redemption, betrayal, and the moral ambiguities of power.

Critical Reception

Colonel Kwiatkowski received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its atmospheric tension and strong performances, others found its narrative convoluted and slow-paced. Audience reception was similarly divided, with some appreciating its dark themes and others finding it overly bleak.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its moody cinematography and atmosphere.
  • Criticized for a meandering plot and lack of clear character motivations.
  • Jan Frycz's performance as the titular colonel was frequently highlighted.

Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in Poland, utilizing stark, industrial landscapes to enhance its gritty atmosphere.

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