Decalogue I

Synopsis

Decalogue I, directed by Krzysztof Kieślowski and featuring Henryk Baranowski, is the first part of the critically acclaimed Polish film series "Dekalog," inspired by the Ten Commandments. This episode follows the moral and emotional turmoil of a man who becomes convinced that his neighbor has committed a terrible act, suspecting the man of a crime only he knows about. Set against the stark backdrop of a bleak Warsaw apartment complex, the film explores themes of guilt, justice, fear, and the complexity of human judgment. Through its minimalist narrative and profound philosophical inquiries, Decalogue I offers a powerful meditation on truth and morality, leaving viewers to grapple with the imperfection of human understanding.

Cast

• 

  Henryk Baranowski

  Krzysztof

• 

  Wojciech Klata

  Paweł

• 

  Maja Komorowska

  Irena

• 

  Artur Barciś

  Man sitting by the Ice

• Agnieszka Brustman

  Chess Player

• 

  Maciej Borniński

  Jacek's Father

Reviews

Decalogue I is widely regarded as a masterpiece of European cinema and the inception of the revered "Dekalog" series. It holds an impressive IMDb rating of 8.5/10, reflecting general audience appreciation for its thought-provoking storyline and compelling performances. Critics have praised the film for its austere yet profound visual style, as well as for Kieślowski's skillful direction and the depth of the moral questions it raises. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated score for this individual segment but the complete series is frequently highlighted as essential viewing, often receiving high critical acclaim overall. Roger Ebert referred to the "Dekalog" series as a compelling moral inquiry that remains relevant decades after its release, noting its ability to confront complex ethical dilemmas in everyday life. Some critiques mention that the film’s pacing can be slow for viewers accustomed to more straightforward narratives, and its ambiguous ending can be challenging, demanding active interpretation from the audience. Nevertheless, reviewers agree that Decalogue I's rich thematic content and atmospheric intensity contribute to its status as a timeless, influential work in cinema history.

See also

Nixon

The Addiction

Bellissima

Blind Chance