The War Trilogy

Ashes and Diamonds

Popiół i Diament

One of Martin Scorsese’s most beloved films, Andrzej Wajda’s piercing drama stars iconic Polish actor Zbigniew Cybulski as a tragic hero in Poland in the aftermath of the Second World War.

  • Director

    Andrzej Wajda

  • With

    Zbigniew Cybulski, Ewa Krzyżewska, Wacław Zastrzeżyński

  • Poland 1958. 104min

  • Digital (restoration)

  • Certificate

    12A

  • English subtitles

In the last days of the Second World War, Maciek, a Polish resistance fighter, is tasked with the assassination of a Communist official. When he meets Krystyna, he is offered a glimpse of a world beyond war and destruction, and questions his assignment. Wajda’s classic drama, which cemented his position as a world-class filmmaker, features an iconic central performance by Cybulski – the ‘Polish James Dean’ – who contributes immeasurably to this probing look at the complex post-war future for a new nation and its people. It’s essential viewing.

Restored by TPS Studio.

Joint ticket available with the screenings of A Generation and Kanal on Sunday 15 February. Tickets £28.50, concessions £22.50 (Members pay £3 less). Book in person at the box office or by phone on 020 7928 3232.

The KINOTEKA Polish Film Festival Opening screening of Ashes and Diamonds on Wednesday 4 February will include an extended intro and will be screened on an imported 35mm print.

Also available on BFI Player