Young Girls of Wilko

Rating:
Summary: A Unique Film Directed by Andrzej Wajda
Review: After 15 years of being away, Wiktor (as played by Daniel Olbrychski) returns to visit his aunt and uncle at the advice of a doctor to get away for a while and recover from the loss of the death of his best friend. Nearby, in a gorgeous manor house, live five sisters whose lives were always filled with talking about Wiktor. Wiktor's return rekindles the love four of the sisters had for him. Despite the 15 years apart, Wiktor becomes the focal point of discussions of the maids of Wilko once more

Wiktor is interested in all of the sisters, but is cowardly and indecisive, and therefore cannot make a decision on which one to pursue. The four sisters are lead on occasionally, but each is crushed when Wiktor gives another sister attention. Out of naiveté Wiktor does not seem to realize how much they all care for him and out of fear does not know how to respond when they tell him of their interest in him.

The film is a peaceful one with little action, but one that touches your emotions. In this 111-minute film, the viewers are given a glimpse into the past, and how a man regrets the mistakes of his youth and how his inaction left four women longing for him.

"Young Girls of Wilko" (or "Panny Z Wilka" in Polish) is based on a novel, whose author appears in the film as the old man who watches from time to time. The story is enchanting and filled with artistic beauty. Overall, this 1979 film, directed by Andrzej Wajda, is definitely one any culture seeking viewer should see.