Personnel

One of Kieslowski's earliest films, and I believe his first dramatic feature. The film follows a young man who has just started work in the technical department of a theater, making costumes. It serves as both a behind-the-scenes look (very reminiscent of Kieslowski's fly-on-the-wall documentaries) and a political allegory when Romek faces an ethical decision. Knowing Kieslowski's fondness for moral ambiguity, it's no surprise that the story is left open-ended. It reminded me a little of BLIND CHANCE. Juliusz Machulski is quite good in the lead, as is Michal Tarkowski (who would reappear in THE SCAR). The ins and outs of the theater biz are interesting and presented in an intimate, and at times comical, you-are-there manner. The political angle is a tiny bit heavy-handed and forced, but not too much. It's hard to make a case for this film's greatness, especially in light of Kieslowski's later works, but it's an easy watch with some rewards to be had. Rating: