The Existence

Even though death appears in feature films on a regular basis and paradoxically often goes unnoticed in documentary films as well as in life, it is generally a taboo topic. The young Polish documentary film maker Marcin Koszalka has decided to touch and 'move' this subject. He did so with the help of the famous Krakow theatre actor Jerzy Nowak, who is in his 80s but still leads an active life.
The collaboration of the two has resulted in an interesting and moving film that follows the private life and existential decisions of the famous actor. The film seems to work therapeutically for both of them. Before the actor decides to dedicate his body to science after his death, he wants to find out what it involves practically. In the process, both actor and director have to deal with the ethical and philosophical reality of human death. This results in wonderful teamwork in which the audience gradually becomes involved in the unspoken dilemmas as well.
The slow camera work, thoughtful shots and editing, all wrapped in the empathic approach, result in an unforgettable experience. In a highly religious country like Poland this movie gives rise to a great deal of discussion, but the subject of the film, of what happens or should happen with a body after physical death, is universally recognisable. (LC)