“Odyseja polska” [The Polish Odyssey] - Instytut Pileckiego

“Odyseja polska” [The Polish Odyssey] is a moving story about the courage, steadfastness and dedication of the soldiers of the II Polish Corps during the Second World War.

Film tells not only about a journey of several thousand kilometers – from the frosty Siberia, through the Middle East, to Italy – but also about a metaphysical transformation from emaciated prisoners of Soviet gulags to victors who opened the gate to Rome. The extraordinary fates of the “Polish Odysseuses” are recounted by one of the veterans of the Battle of Monte Cassino and a liberator of Bologna, as well as by the descendants of other soldiers who settled in Italy after the war.

The memories recounted in the film concern various events that stir up strong
emotions: from brutal deportations deep into the USSR, through the epic journey of Anders’ Army, to the respectful, mutually helpful – and sometimes even romantic! – relationships between the Polish soldiers and Italian civilians. The documentary also presents the perspective of the inhabitants of Italy, who appreciate the Poles’ contribution to the fight for freedom and perpetuate the memory of their heroism. “Odyseja polska” is a film about people who were not crushed, but made stronger by their experience of captivity. Their steadfastness and dedication became a symbol of the fight against tyranny and of the desire for freedom. Thanks to the intertwining of archival footage, previously unknown to the wider public, with personal stories, the film is not only a heartfelt homage, but also an unforgettable lesson in history. This is a story that inspires, educates and reminds us that freedom always comes at a price and is never given once and for all.

The film was produced in cooperation with the National Film Archive – Audiovisual Institute.

Film by: Michał Miziołek, Wojciech Saramonowicz, Grzegorz Czerniak
Duration: 64 minutes