The Leaves Have Fallen

Synopsis

The Leaves Have Fallen (Opadły liście z drzew) is a poignant 1975 Polish drama featuring Mieczysław Hryniewicz in a compelling lead role. Set in post-war Poland, the film delves into the complexities of human nature against a backdrop of social and political change. It weaves a narrative that explores themes of loss, memory, and reconciliation, reflecting the emotional and moral struggles faced by its characters. The atmosphere is rich with symbolism, using the metaphor of falling leaves to represent the passage of time and the inevitable transformations in life. Directed with a nuanced approach, the film invites viewers to engage deeply with its layered storytelling and evocative cinematography.

Cast

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  Mieczysław Hryniewicz

  Henryk

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  Maria Klejdysz

  Henryk's mother

• 

  Tadeusz Cygler

  Master Craftsman

• 

  Bohdan Ejmont

  Maks

• 

  Arkadiusz Bazak

  Wir

• Barbara Kosińska

  Zosia

Reviews

Critical reception of The Leaves Have Fallen is relatively mixed yet leans toward positive appreciation, particularly among enthusiasts of classic Polish cinema. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.6/10 based on user reviews, reflecting moderate admiration for its thematic depth and performances, especially Mieczysław Hryniewicz’s subtle portrayal. While the movie does not have significant presence on aggregate critic sites like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, the available critiques highlight its reflective tone and artistic merit. Some reviewers praise it as a thoughtfully crafted drama that captures the somber mood of 1970s Poland, noting its atmospheric storytelling and meaningful symbolism. Conversely, a few critics find the pacing slow and the plot at times meandering, indicating that it may appeal more to viewers who appreciate contemplative cinema rather than mainstream audiences. Overall, The Leaves Have Fallen is recognized as a culturally significant work that offers insight into its era’s social fabric and continues to resonate with those seeking a deeply humanistic, introspective film experience.