All 21 Andrzej Zulawski Movies
Dive into the dark and surreal world of Andrzej Zulawski, the enigmatic Polish filmmaker whose boundary-pushing movies continue to captivate audiences worldwide. In this captivating roundup, we delve into the complexities of his filmography, exploring the themes, styles, and impact that have made Andrzej Zulawski a unique voice in the realm of cinema.
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1. Samson (1961)
“Samson, “ a gripping film from 1961 by Andrzej Wajda, is set during the dark times of the Nazi occupation in Warsaw. The story follows Jakub Gold, a Jewish prisoner who has managed to escape his captors and is now hiding in various private apartments, desperately trying to return to the ghetto.
2. Love at Twenty (1962)
“Love at Twenty” is a compelling international anthology film that explores the complexities of love at the age of 20 through five insightful episodes. Directed by a diverse group of directors from France, Italy, Japan, Poland, and West Germany, the film features a powerful score by Georges Delerue and still photos by Henri Cartier-Bresson.
3. The Ashes (1965)
The Ashes, also known as Popioly, is a gripping and historically accurate war drama set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Napoleonic wars. Director Andrzej Wajda takes audiences on a poignant journey through the darker moments of Poland’s past when the nation was under the iron grip of Napoleon’s armies.
4. The Night of the Generals (1967)
Set amidst the harrowing chaos of Nazi-occupied Warsaw in 1942, The Night of the Generals delves deep into the dark world of power and corruption. When a Polish prostitute turns up dead, suspicion quickly falls on three high-ranking military officers — the Generals. Determined to bring justice, Major Grau, a tenacious German intelligence officer, embarks on a relentless pursuit that lasts for decades. Against a backdrop of war, betrayal, and political intrigue, The Night of the Generals offers a compelling portrayal of the complex moral landscape of war-torn Europe. The movie also explores themes of unraveling trust and personal loyalties, as relationships once considered solid are tested under the unforgiving glare of war. Directed by Anatole Litvak and featuring an all-star cast, including Peter O’Toole, Omar Sharif, and Tom Courtenay, the film delivers a gripping portrayal of a time and place where the line between right and wrong is blurred, and justice is a rarity. With a runtime of 2 hours and 28 minutes, the movie’s thought-provoking tale of espionage, crime, and dark politics keeps viewers at the edge of their seats from start to finish.
5. The Third Part of the Night (1971)
“The Third Part of the Night” (1971) is a harrowing, thought-provoking Polish drama directed by Andrzej Zulawski. Set during World War II, the film follows the tragic story of a husband and father who, after witnessing the brutal murder of his family, takes desperate measures to survive and fight back against the invading German forces. As he navigates the treacherous landscape of war and resistance, he stumbles upon a pregnant woman on the verge of giving birth.
6. The Devil (1972)
In this hauntingly atmospheric drama-horror film, “The Devil” (1972), Polish director Andrzej Zulawski masterfully blends elements of suspense, corruption, and supernatural terror into a chilling narrative set during the Prussian invasion of Poland in 1793.
7. That Most Important Thing: Love (1975)
In the enigmatic film “That Most Important Thing: Love” (1975) directed by Andrzej Zulawski, Servais Mont (Fabio Testi), a photographer, and Nadine Chevalier (Romy Schneider), a struggling actress who dabbles in soft-core movies, find their paths intertwined amidst a whirlwind of passion, art, and morality. Driven by love, Servais stakes his reputation and livelihood to secure a part for Nadine in a theatrical production of “Richard III. “ As their bond deepens, Nadine is torn between the newfound feelings for Servais and her loyalty to her husband, Jacques. With a backdrop of the era’s decadence, this riveting drama masterfully explores the boundaries of love, fidelity, and self-discovery.
8. Possession (1981)
“Possession, “ directed by Andrzej Zulawski and released in 1983, weaves a haunting tale of obsession and terror. When a woman asks her husband for a divorce, she displays increasingly bizarre behavior.
9. The Public Woman (1984)
“The Public Woman, “ originally titled “La femme publique, “ is a riveting 1984 drama written and directed by Andrzej Zulawski. The movie follows an inexperienced young actress as she becomes entangled in a web of reality, being directed by a charismatic Czech filmmaker in Paris.
10. Mad Love (1985)
“Mad Love, “ a 1985 French film directed by Andrzej Zulawski, is a unique and darkly comedic exploration of the complexities of love and the human condition. Starring Sophie Marceau, Francis Huster, and Tchéky Karyo, this drama-romance weaves an enthralling tale of a bank robber named Malko (played by Karyo), who becomes entangled in a dangerous relationship with the beautiful and enigmatic Isabelle (portrayed by Marceau).
11. Tristesse et beauté (1985)
“Tristesse et beauté” (1985) is an atmospheric drama that delves into the artistic world of writer Hugo and sculptor Lea. As Hugo struggles to find the creative spark for his next novel, he returns to his past relationship with Lea, hoping to reignite passion and imagination. Set against the backdrop of Paris, this film explores themes of love, tragedy, and the complexities of human connections.
12. Malady of Love (1987)
“Malady of Love” is a captivating and dramatic romance set in 1980s France. The film, skillfully directed by Jacques Deray, follows two physicians, Raoul and Clément, who both fall in love with the same enigmatic woman, Juliette, a whimsical hairdresser. The older doctor Raoul becomes infatuated with her first, but finds himself competing with the younger, passionate Clément.
13. On the Silver Globe (1988)
“On the Silver Globe” is a captivating and thought-provoking film set in a unique and surreal universe. Directed by Andrzej Zulawski and written by him along with his brother Jerzy Zulawski, the movie takes audiences on an extraordinary journey that blurs the lines between reality, adventure, and philosophy.
14. My Nights Are More Beautiful Than Your Days (1989)
My Nights Are More Beautiful Than Your Days, directed by Andrzej Zulawski, is a captivating drama-romance that explores the deep connection between two mortally ill lovers. The movie follows the intense and passionate relationship between a man with a physical ailment and a woman dealing with mental issues. This thought-provoking tale delves into the complexities of love and the human condition, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience.
15. Boris Godounov (1989)
In the heart of 17th century Russia, “Boris Godounov” (1989) is a gripping musical drama that brings to life the turbulent reign of the country’s most powerful ruler. Based on the renowned opera by Modest Mussorgsky, this film masterfully weaves a tale of tragedy, ambition, and brutality amidst the political landscape of the Kremlin.
16. Blue Note (1991)
“Blue Note” is an evocative tale set in the 19th century, chronicling the final days of a fragile Chopin. As the composer struggles to maintain his professional life, the story delves into his tumultuous relationships and artistic journey, painting a vivid portrait of his life in the twilight of his career. Directed by Andrzej Zulawski, the film offers a compelling mix of drama, music, and romance, as it explores deeper themes of vulnerability, love, and the inherent human struggle for artistic expression.
17. Szamanka (1996)
“Szamanka” is a gripping horror drama that takes the viewer on a chilling journey through the discovery of an ancient shaman’s preserved body and the ensuing mystery that surrounds it. The film follows a young anthropology student who stumbles upon the remains, leading him down a dark path as his girlfriend begins to exhibit eerie behavior that closely mirrors the shaman’s existence.
18. Fidelity (2000)
Fidelity, also known as La fidélité, is a captivating 2000 drama directed by Andrzej Zulawski and written by Zulawski and Madame de La Fayette. The movie stars Sophie Marceau, Pascal Greggory, and Guillaume Canet. It tells the story of a talented photographer who lands a coveted job at a Paris-based tabloid, where he becomes romantically entangled with a whimsical children’s book publisher. Despite the temptations of another photographer, our ambitious protagonist faces his own moral dilemmas.
19. Cosmos (2015)
Cosmos is a captivating 2015 mystery-comedy-drama film with a tantalizing plot and a distinctive European appeal. Directed by Andrzej Zulawski and co-written with Witold Gombrowicz, this movie follows the journey of a young man who embarks on a literary quest, only to find himself enmeshed in a surreal enigma at a French guest-house.
20. We Are the Flesh (2016)
In the post-apocalyptic world of “We Are the Flesh, “ siblings Juan and Lucia struggle to survive amid the ruins of their once vibrant city. Their circumstances lead them to stumble upon an enigmatic survivor, who presents them with a horrifying proposition to save them from the grim reality they face outside.
21. Bird Talk (2019)
“Bird Talk, “ also known as “Mowa ptaków, “ is a riveting drama film set in contemporary Warsaw, Poland. The story, penned by Andrzej Zulawski, addresses the lives of Poland’s citizens and their struggle to find a place in the rapidly evolving city.
