Rose

Synopsis

Set in the aftermath of World War II, "Rose" (2012) directed by Wojciech Smarzowski, tells the haunting story of Tadeusz, a Polish soldier portrayed by Marcin Dorociński, who returns home to the Masurian region only to find his life irrevocably altered. Against a turbulent backdrop of shifting borders and deep-seated ethnic tensions between Poles and Germans, the film explores themes of survival, love, and trauma. Tadeusz meets Rose, a German woman who has survived brutal hardships, and through their complex relationship, the film delves into the struggles of rebuilding a life amid the ruins of war. Gritty and emotionally intense, "Rose" offers a raw portrayal of human resilience and the scars left by history's darkest moments.

Cast

• 

  Marcin Dorociński

  Tadeusz

• 

  Agata Kulesza

  Róża Kwiatkowska

• 

  Malwina Buss

  Jadwiga Kwiatkowska

• 

  Jacek Braciak

  Władek

• Kinga Preis

  Amelia

• 

  Edward Linde-Lubaszenko

  Pastor

Reviews

Critically acclaimed for its unflinching portrayal of post-war devastation, "Rose" holds a respectable 7.6/10 rating on IMDb, reflecting positive audience reception. Reviewers have praised Marcin Dorociński's powerful performance, noting his ability to convey deep emotional complexity without overt dramatization. Heritage-focused publications, such as The Guardian, have lauded the film's historical authenticity and atmospheric cinematography, calling it "a hauntingly raw masterpiece that confronts the painful legacy of war." On Rotten Tomatoes, while the film does not hold a widely aggregated score, individual critic reviews acknowledge its artistic merit though some cite its bleak narrative and slow pacing as demanding for viewers. Metacritic reflects generally favorable reviews, highlighting the director's skillful storytelling and the compelling interplay between characters. Critics from Variety pointed out that "Rose" balances brutal realism with poignant storytelling, though its heavy subject matter might not appeal to all audiences. Overall, the film is considered a significant contribution to Eastern European cinema, celebrated for its emotional depth, strong performances, and unvarnished look at a turbulent historical period.