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General Nil: the Polish hero who defied Nazis and Communists
General Nil (2009) Director: Ryszard Bugajski Presentation: Witness the exciting life of Poland's most legendary, and controversial, general: Emil August Fieldorf, better known as "General Nil". Nil's life has long been a taboo subject, but now, for the first time in history, a Polish filmmaker has dared to reveal the truth about this historical legend's fierce life and untimely death. Director Ryszard Bugajski reveals the ugly world of Polish politics in all of their dramatic – and sometimes darkly comedic – glory. In this brutal era, any opposition was a death sentence, and patriotism meant blind obedience. Actor Olgierd Lukaszewicz portrays the patriotic Emil as a renowned general who became a symbol of Poland's independence before he was tragically betrayed by both the Nazi and Communist regimes. General Nil, like all historical giants, lived a life of incredible highs and crushing lows. His path to greatness in the Polish army was fraught with drama and bloodshed, beginning when he fought against the Nazi invasion during World War II. Following the occupation, he served as an emissary to the Polish government in Africa, devoting his loyalty, always, to his people. However, tragedy struck upon his return to Poland after the war's end. The conquering Soviet regime, now in charge of the country after taking it from the Nazis, misidentified Nil as a traitor to the home he had fought so hard to defend, and condemned him to a brutal labour camp in the Ural Mountains. The director perfectly marries his passion of history with his extensive research, creating an authentic look at this often misunderstood chapter of Poland's rich history. Synopsis: The film takes place between 1947 and 1953 and reconstructs the last years of general August Emil Fieldorf, best known as General Nil (Olgierd Lukaszewicz). Nil was the legendary commander of Armia Krajowa Kedyw, and was falsely accused of treason and sentenced to death by the communist regime. The film shows his return from the prisoners-of-war camp in the USSR, arrest, interrogation, and finally his execution. Trivia: • The movie was acclaimed by both Polish critics and the general public due its realism. General Nil: the Polish hero who defied Nazis and Communists |
