The Decalogue: A Short Film About Killing
Film description:
“A Short Film about Killing” is the feature film version of the fifth part of “The Decalogue” television series, an unprecedented expression of one artist, based on the ten commandment: a basic ethical code that formed the cultures of Judaism and Christianity. Kieslowski illustrates the commandment “Thou shalt not kill” with the story of a young boy, who for unclear reasons murders a taxi driver, and is sentenced to death. A naturalistic way of portraying the killing and executing the court verdict prompts reflexion if the two events can be treated equally. This is how Kieślowski, in the award nominated film, takes a stand on the righteousness of the death penalty, leaving viewers with an open question instead of providing ready answers.
About the director:
Krzysztof Kieślowski is a world renowned Polish director and screenplay writer. Born in 1941, he is one of the artists of the so-called “cinema of moral unrest”. In both his feature films and documentaries, it’s always man that is most important – his existential problems and ethical choices. This enables the film director to pose universal questions on the human condition and the role of man in the world. Kieślowski’s characters are often confronted with the reality surrounding them and are forced to give a testament of their humanity. Despite his passing 20 years ago, the director’s perceptive nature and the uncompromising way he confronts his characters with reality makes his films still up to date, with viewers reflecting on life and inspiring interesting discussions.
Most important films:
- 1977 “From the Night Porter’s Point of View”
- 1979 “Camera Buff”
- 1988 series of ten films “The Decalogue”
- 1991 “The Double Life of Véronique”
- 1993-1994 the trilogy “Three Colors” – “Blue”, “White”, “Red”
By Agnieszka Mysiak based on www.culture.pl
