Illumination

(Iluminacja)

In this classic bildungsroman, a young man from a provincial town comes to the capital to study physics, hoping that science can answer his questions. He explores the boundaries of knowledge while tackling universal life experiences—love, death, friendship, fatherhood, and work.

The Illumination is a philosophical essay written with a camera, comprised of animation, experimental techniques and documentary footage. Director Krzysztof Zanussi’s protagonist struggles against the futility of a life constantly overshadowed by death. However, in the face of defeat, he rejects nihilism and resignation to his fate in favor of a simplistic view of life: fragile but treasured. With the success of this masterpiece, Mr. Zanussi’s career blossomed into international renown, proving that philosophy could be translated into successful cinema.

Director: Zanussi, Krzysztof

Screenplay: Krzysztof Zanussi

Cinematography: Edward Kłosiński

Music: Wojciech Kilar

Film Editor: Urszula Śliwińska

Principal Cast: Stanisław Latałłó, Monika Dzienisiewicz-Olbrychska, Małgorzata Pritulak, Jan Skotnicki, Edward Żebrowski, Włodzimierz Zonn, Bogdan Mielnik, Władysław Turski, Włodzimierz Zawadzki, Łukasz Turski and others

Runtime: 87 minutes

Release Year: 1972

Genre: Drama