In Desert and Wilderness

Synopsis

In Desert and Wilderness (2001), originally titled "W pustyni i w puszczy," is a Polish adventure film based on the classic novel by Henryk Sienkiewicz. The story follows two children, Staś Tarkowski and Nel Rawlison, who find themselves in the African wilderness after being kidnapped during the Mahdist War. Navigating the harsh desert and jungle landscapes, they must rely on their courage, wit, and each other to survive. Their journey is a compelling tale of friendship and resilience as they overcome numerous obstacles and encounter diverse cultures amidst the vast and often unforgiving African terrain.

Cast

• 

  Adam Fidusiewicz

  Staś Tarkowski

• Karolina Sawka

  Nel Rawlison

• 

  Artur Żmijewski

  Mr. Władysław Tarkowski

• 

  Andrzej Strzelecki

  Mr. Georg Rawlison

• 

  Krzysztof Kowalewski

  Greek Kaliopulli

• 

  Krzysztof Kolberger

  Heinrich Linde

Reviews

The film received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 5.2/10, which suggests a divided reception. Some reviewers appreciated the film's ambitious attempt to bring a beloved Polish literary classic to the screen, praising its adventure sequences and the portrayal of youthful determination. However, others criticized aspects such as pacing and character development. For instance, some noted that while the scenic views and setting were visually appealing, the narrative occasionally felt slow, and the performances from the young leads, including Adam Fidusiewicz, were seen as uneven. Rotten Tomatoes does not currently have a critic score for the film, reflecting its more regional popularity and limited international exposure. Metacritic also lacks a formal rating, pointing toward the film's niche appeal. Overall, viewers looking for a family-friendly adventure steeped in historical context may find it engaging, though others might find it less compelling due to its execution and dated elements.