Matka Teresa od kotów

A disturbing crime movie (based on real events) told backwards in time. The story begins with the apprehension of the culprits by a SWAT team and their transportation to prison and continues with time running backwards. Most of the pieces of the puzzle fall into place by the end, although, like in real life, not everything is neatly clarified. The movie probably needs to be watched twice; on second viewing we notice hints that we may have missed the first time.

Is the inverted time narration a gimmick? I believe not. It produces a sort of Brechtian alienation effect that strips the story of its melodramatic components and approximates the way in which the Polish public (and some of the characters) became aware of the crime. Other movies, like 5 x 2 (2004) by Francois Ozon have used to advantage the time-backwards format.

Excellent direction by Pawel Sala. He also wrote the script, spare and chilling, with especially disturbing lines for Artur, played by Mateusz Kosciukiewicz. Outstanding performances by all actors. The subdued cinematography by Nikolaj Lebkowski matches perfectly the story.

A not-to-miss movie. You may find it in the rental services under its Polish title, Matka Teresa od Kotów.

The movie is all backward and out of joint. No plot is carried through. No character is developed.

Most of the movie is spent waiting for something to happen. There is no plot, and what little of the movie is watchable, happens in the first 10 minutes.

Characters appear, only to disappear without contributing anything to the film. You will get more out of the trailer than out of the movie.

If you didn't read about it in the newspapers in Poland before watching the movie, you will have no idea what happened.

The only reason this review has 2 stars is because I feel sorry for it.

Avoid.