Watch A Love in Germany

A Love in Germany is a 1983 historical drama film directed by Andrzej Wajda and starring Hanna Schygulla, Piotr Lysak, and Armin Mueller-Stahl. The film is set in a small German town during the height of World War II and explores the forbidden and controversial relationship between a German woman and a Polish prisoner of war. The film begins in 1942 with a German woman named Pauline Kropp (Hanna Schygulla) working as a nurse in a hospital in a small town in Nazi Germany. Her husband, Franz Kropp (Armin Mueller-Stahl), is a loyal Nazi party member and a member of the Hitler Youth. Their son, Helmut, is also a soldier in the Nazi army.

One day, Pauline comes into contact with a Polish prisoner of war named Stanislaus (Piotr Lysak) who is being held captive in the hospital. Despite the language barrier, the two develop a deep connection and begin a secret love affair. This is extremely dangerous, as relationships between Germans and Poles were strictly forbidden under Nazi law.

As their relationship becomes more intense, they must navigate the dangers of discovery and the threat of punishment. They are both aware that if their affair is discovered, they will both face severe consequences. Stanislaus is also in constant fear of being sent back to a concentration camp, further adding to the tension of their relationship.

The film does an excellent job of portraying the intense pressure and fear that comes with living under a fascist regime. Both Pauline and Stanislaus are trapped in their situations and have no real power over their lives. Their love becomes a way for them to escape the confines of their situation, but it is also incredibly risky and may ultimately cost them everything.

The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly Hanna Schygulla's portrayal of Pauline. She does an excellent job of conveying the character's struggle and fear while also showing her strength and determination. Piotr Lysak is also fantastic as Stanislaus, communicating the character's deep sadness and fear with subtlety and grace.

The film's director does an excellent job of building tension and creating a sense of foreboding throughout the film. The viewer is constantly aware of the danger that Pauline and Stanislaus are in, and the threat of discovery hangs over every scene. The film's ending is hauntingly beautiful and perfectly captures the tragedy of their love affair.

Overall, A Love in Germany is an incredibly powerful film that expertly explores the complexities of love, power, and fear under fascism. The film's strong performances, tension-filled direction, and haunting score make it a must-watch for anyone interested in historical dramas.