“Cold War” is a 2018 Polish film directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, who co-wrote the screenplay with Janusz Glowacki and Piotr Borkowski. Set in Poland post-World War II, the film explores the intense and turbulent relationship between two musicians, Wiktor and Zula, who come from different backgrounds but are united by their shared love of music.
The film begins in 1949 when Wiktor (played by Tomasz Kot) is tasked with forming a folk music ensemble that will serve as a cultural representation of the new communist government in Poland. During the auditions, he meets Zula (played by Joanna Kulig), a young woman from the countryside with a beautiful voice and a troubled past. Wiktor is immediately drawn to her, and despite their different backgrounds and personalities, the two begin a passionate love affair.
As the ensemble gains popularity, Wiktor becomes increasingly disillusioned with the government’s control over the arts. He dreams of creating music free from the constraints of politics and begins to explore jazz and other forms of music deemed unacceptable by the communist authorities. Conversely, Zula is more willing to play by the rules and pursue fame within the system.
Wiktor decides to defect to the West, hoping to find a more creative and free environment for his music. Zula, however, chooses to stay behind and continue her career in Poland. The two lovers are separated for many years as Wiktor struggles to make a living in Paris and Zula becomes a rising star in Poland.
Throughout the film, Wiktor and Zula’s paths cross and recross as they struggle with their love for each other and the cultural and political realities of the Cold War era. The film is a beautiful and haunting exploration of love, art, and politics set against the backdrop of one of the most turbulent periods in European history.
The film is notable for its stunning black-and-white cinematography, which captures the stark beauty of the Polish countryside and the gritty realism of post-war Paris. The performances by Tomasz Kot and Joanna Kulig are also outstanding, conveying both the passion and the pain of their characters’ relationship.
“Cold War” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, winning the Best Director award at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival and three Academy Award nominations. The film is a powerful and deeply moving portrayal of the human cost of the Cold War and the enduring power of love and music.
You can watch it on Amazon Prime or buy it from The Criterion Collection.
The Other Cinema 