Chiến Dịch Hyacinth Operation Hyacinth (2021)

Piotr Domalewski's 'Operation Hyacinth' is a piercing cinematic examination, masterfully sidestepping conventional plot exposition to immerse viewers in the oppressive atmosphere of 1980s Communist Poland. The film’s true strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of state-sponsored homophobia and pervasive surveillance, echoing a dark chapter of LGBTQ+ history.

Marek Gajczak's cinematography paints a stark, melancholic landscape, perfectly complementing the period's inherent gloom. Tomasz Ziętek delivers a mesmerizing performance as detective Robert Mrozowski, embodying a profound internal conflict between duty, personal conviction, and burgeoning self-discovery. His nuanced portrayal of moral ambiguity and desire is truly compelling. Hubert Miłkowski's subtle yet powerful acting as Janek adds a layer of vulnerability and emotional depth, essential to the film's poignant core. Marek Kalita grounds the authoritarian paternal figure.

Beyond being a gripping political thriller, "Operation Hyacinth" functions as a vital statement on human rights and LGBTQ+ identity, challenging historical amnesia. It firmly establishes itself as a significant contribution to queer cinema and psychological thrillers, resonating deeply with contemporary struggles for equality.