Leave No Traces

In 1983 Poland, a young communist activist witnesses a brutal beating of a fellow activist by the police and subsequently finds himself entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. As he tries to uncover the truth behind the tragic events, he becomes a target of the secret police, forcing him to confront the oppressive regime and his own conscience. The film portrays the suffocating atmosphere of fear and paranoia under communist rule.

Leave No Traces received critical acclaim for its atmospheric direction, powerful performances, and its unflinching portrayal of a dark period in Polish history. Critics lauded its tension and thematic depth, though some noted its challenging length. It was particularly praised for its ability to evoke the pervasive fear and moral compromises of the era.

• A masterfully crafted historical drama that immerses viewers in a tense and suffocating political climate.

• Praised for its compelling performances, particularly from the lead actor, and its meticulous recreation of the era.

• Recognized for its insightful exploration of moral ambiguity and the impact of authoritarianism on individual lives.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly appreciate the film's historical accuracy and its intense, gripping narrative. Many highlight the strong acting and the effective creation of a suspenseful atmosphere that keeps viewers engaged throughout its runtime. The film is frequently commended for its powerful storytelling and its important exploration of historical events.

Awarded the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival (2021) and multiple awards at the Gdynia Film Festival, including Best Director and Best Actor.

The film is based on the true story of the death of Grzegorz Przemyk, a student who was beaten to death by police in Warsaw in 1983, and the subsequent investigation and cover-up.