Review of Ashes and Diamonds (1958) by Javor B — 01 Jun 2011

I had not seen the previous two films and I seriously wished I had...or even just paid attention in history class or something. I had little idea of what was happening politically in Poland during WW2, I did get up to speed but perhaps didn't need to know the specifics as this film could be about any uprising or civil war.

The reason I say that is partially a result of the plot being based on the decisions of one man, in life and in love. Zbigniew Cybulski did a great job as the formerly cool and calculating assassin. Eva Krzyewska was very gorgeous (good job Poland) and it was easy to see how she could tame even the most savage of beasts. Her performance was really natural, just her facial expressions alone conveyed a lot.

This is not an action film or perhaps even a thriller. It's a drama. Though there were a few humorous parts. The cinematography was excellent. Really, some beautiful and memorable shots all in lit amazingly, black and white goooodness. Thats probably what elevated this film to a high degree. It's treated really as a piece of art in places (the ending as well).

Overall, it's a film with a strong anti-war/anti-politics message with some superb shots, and slightly depressing story presented with a real handle on metaphor and beauty.