MAN OF MARBLE (Andrzej Wajda, 1977)

I’m torn. The historical importance of Czlowiek z marmuru; its strategy of deconstruction; its captivating style; coming from Communist Poland, the sheer amazement its anti-Communism generates—that the film even got made; its examination of government/media manipulation of individuals and the public: all these factors argue on behalf of Wajda’s film.      On the other hand, it strikes me as a lame film. Can someone help me out by explaining the ending, with the filmmaker (that Krystyna Janda plays) keeping apace with the son of the guy she is making the film about? I confess: I’ve never understood this ending. Someone, help. I don’t doubt that everyone’s correct—that this is a great work; but it may not be for me. I don’t even think Janda’s performance is all that interesting. What do you think? Are there Man of Marble-enthusiasts out there? And whether you are or aren’t, please, someone, explain the ending.

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