This epic tale of the Napoleonic wars and Poles’ participation in them provides Wajda with an opportunity to consider thorny questions around heroism and patriotism. A young nobleman partakes in the conflict, fighting for Poland’s freedom while searching for his own self. Wajda worked with a higher budget and on a much larger scale to create this visually dazzling CinemaScope drama, which examines nationhood and national identity.
The screening of The Ashes on Saturday 28 February will be introduced by writer Michael Brooke.
