User reviews

This movie is superb but chilling. Set in 1950s Poland when the Communist Party was attempting to eradicate religious practise, the story centres around a young man who is tasked with firstly surveilling and then defaming key Catholic clergy. We watch him transform from an idealistic, ambitious youth into an obsessive zealot. It's fascinating and quite shocking to witness not only the lengths he'll go to to achieve his goals, but also his resulting moral decline. Equally shocking is the effect he has on others. I don't know whether the movie depicts true events but the inclusion of what looks like some actual historical footage from that time certainly adds to the authenticity - and to the impact. Well written and exquisitely photographed it held my attention throughout. Highly recommended particularly for those interested in historical dramas.

The movie tells a seemingly simple story of a secret policeman assigned to a task of invigilation of the future Pope John Paul II. The story is entirely focused on secret police, the protagonist and his superior. There is very little about people of the church, we see them from the distance, we are not even told what do they do. More time is devoted to a cabaret where people who chose to live outside of the framework of surrounding workers paradise. We are also shown, in a rather dispassionate manner how the state crushes people in order to force them to collaborate. As the movie is shot in black and white, it all adds up to a claustrophobic atmosphere. There does not seem to be any way out.

The movie does excellent depicting atmosphere in an oppressive communist state. However, we should keep in mind that by 1960s Polish police state was not particularly brutal, people were not murdered, they were rarely physically abused. As it turns out, there are more "civilized" methods to force people into obedience and break their personalities. For those lucky enough never to experience life in a police state or those who may imagine all political systems are equally oppressive, Strawman can supply plenty of material for thought.

This production makes excellent use of the historical background as the foundation on which it builds the extremely exciting story of the main character. Political events, which provide an important context, set the rhythm of the whole story and influence the choices of the main protagonist. However, it is his decisions and the risky steps he takes that weld the plot together and make it impossible for us to tear ourselves away from the screen.

Importantly, the director perfectly balances the historical events with the protagonist's personal story, which makes the film not only fascinating from a historical perspective, but also artistically thoughtful. The black and white setting adds a unique character to the production and gives it an artistic background, which contributes to the viewer's delight. The manipulation of time and the tightening of the plot keep us in suspense and make us follow the fate of the main character with bated breath.

This is definitely not only a historical film, but also a work of art. Beautiful images, perfectly crafted cinematography and a moving story that draws you in from the first moments to the very end. It is a real feast for the senses and the soul. I recommend this film to anyone who wants to experience unforgettable moments both on a historical and artistic level.

The "Figurant" is a production that not only uses the historical background as a solid foundation, but also builds on it an extremely exciting story of the main character.

The film is set in a time full of complicated political events, which gives the story a unique rhythm. This is when the main protagonist makes risky decisions, which cement the plot and make the viewer unable to tear himself away from the screen.

"Figurant" is a story about an agent of the communist security service who invigilates Karol Wojtyla. The film is kept in an atmosphere of black and white magic, which perfectly captures the atmosphere of those years. It's a bit like riding an exciting merry-go-round - you never know what to expect.

The protagonist of the film falls more and more into the obsessive surveillance of Wojtyla, which really draws you in. By the way, "Figurant" shows how hatred can ruin a person's life. It's something that really makes you think.

If you are a fan of films with a strong message and fast-paced action, then "Figurant" will definitely appeal to you.