12/03/2010

The extent to which political manipulation can invade private lives is at the heart of Rosebud, the new film by Jan Kidawa-Bloński (Destined for Blues), which is being released in Polish theatres today. This theme was also explored in Michal Rosa’s Scratch [+see also:
trailer
film profile] (released in September 2008).

"The secret services in many Communist countries use the same operating methods: they get a hold over those close to their target, those who trust and respect them or, better still, have a strong emotional bond with them" said Kidawa-Bloński. "The NKVD thus lured the wife of Russian poet Sergei Essenin, and the Stasi a lover of Bertold Brecht".

Rosebud traces the story of a well-known writer (Andrzej Seweryn), who has a love affair with a young woman (Magdalena Boczarska), without realising that she is also involved in an ambiguous relationship with a secret agent. Blinded by his feelings, the writer fails to see he is the victim of a serious political intrigue.

The director continued: "The film shows the methods of spying and repression over artistic circles at the end of the 1960s (…) At the same time, it’s a story of love and passion, about the price we’re prepared to pay for our feelings".

Produced by Wytwórnia Filmów Dokumentalnych i Fabularnych, Rosebud was co-produced by Monolith Films and TP SA (Telecomunikacja Polska), with backing from the Polish Film Institute (PISF).

For viewers who prefer action and escapist films, Kino Świat is today releasing Trick by Jan Hryniak ( The Third), which recounts how two intellectuals escape from prison. Produced by Aromer S.C., the film stars Piotr Adamczyk, Andrzej Chyra, Robert Więckiewicz and Karolina Gruszka.

(Translated from French)