Customer Reviews

With Fire and Sword (Ogniem i Mieczem)

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"Fire and Sword" (Ogniem i Mieczem) was an important cinematic event in my own life, as this great Polish epic caught my attention and created my interest in Polish cinema. Its story, special effects, and the history I learned, simply amazed me. The movie had a life-changing effect one me personally, as a spiritual and a cultural experience of my Polish roots and cultural history. It ranks among the best cinema I have ever watched and is one of my all time favorite films.

"Fire and Sword" is based on the first of a trilogy written by Henryk Sienkiewicz. It takes place in the 17th century, when Poland's borders were much larger than today, and all of Poland's neighbors invaded the land. This story has it all; and is a love story and a war story. It is long (176 minutes), but considering the epic subject matter and intricate story, I loved every minute and feel it takes so long to fully tell the whole story.

Although the film should not be taken as an exact history, it is remarkable how many of the historical details do match up. In my study of this time in history, and through my involvement with a 17th century, Polish-Lithuanian living-history group, I am amazed at the accuracy of even minor details presented in this film. Regardless, the film is not a documentary, rather, it is, without a doubt, pure cinematic entertainment.

Even people unfamiliar with Polish cinema may recognize some of its actors. Izabella Scorupco, the leading lady, also played in many English speaking films, including "Golden Eye" and "Reign of Fire." Two prominent actors (Michal Zebrowski and Zbigniew Zamachowski) were also in Roman Polanski's "The Pianist." If you enjoy historical movies, "Fire and Sword" is a must.