Back to Life Again

Summary: Poland in the Stalin period. This is the dramatic story of three people: an honest and idealistic communist, a Polish RAF pilot, and a ZMW (the Rural Youth Association) activist. Secretary of the Workers' Party, Jakuszyn, intervenes on behalf of Pioter, a former officer of the British air force, unfairly accused of collaboration with bandits. Pioter is sentenced to ten years in prison, and Jakuszyn, for the alleged 'lack of vigilance', loses his post. Anna, a young ZWM activist, also tries to save Pioter. All in vain. Bitter and lonely, she marries a journalist Rydz, an opportunist and careerist. Stalin's death and the 'thaw' change the situation radically. Jakuszyn gets promoted to a Secretary of the Provincial Committee while Pioter – released and vindicated – not only manages to resurrect his military career, but also gets Anna back. This is one of the most interesting films of the Gomulka's period, settling accounts with the past. After its theatrical release the film was put aside and forgotten for over twenty years.