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Father's Law is a 2014 Polish drama film directed by Wojciech Smarzowski, starring Piotr Machalica and Małgorzata Foremniak. Set in the 1980s, the movie tells the story of Janusz Rudnicki, a hard-nosed judge who is known for his strict interpretation of the law. When he is assigned to preside over a case involving the son of a prominent Communist Party member, Janusz is faced with a deeply troubling ethical dilemma.

The film opens with a scene of Janusz presiding over a case in which he must decide whether or not to convict a man who is clearly guilty of a heinous crime. Janusz struggles with his conscience, knowing that he must uphold the law but feeling deeply conflicted about the outcome. This sets the tone for the rest of the movie, which explores the themes of justice and personal responsibility.

As the story progresses, we learn more about Janusz's personal life. He is a father of two children, living with his wife in a modest apartment. He is deeply committed to his work, but his dedication has come at a cost to his family. His son, Tomek, is a troubled teenager who resents his father's distant and demanding nature. Despite this, Janusz is determined to impart his strict moral values to his son.

At the center of the movie is the case of a young man named Marek, who stands accused of assaulting a police officer during a rally. The catch is that Marek is the son of a high-ranking Communist Party official, meaning that the case is loaded with political implications. Janusz must work hard to maintain his impartiality, even as he faces pressure from all sides to deliver a verdict that will satisfy the Communist Party.

As the trial progresses, Janusz is increasingly troubled by the young defendant's plight. Marek is clearly a victim of circumstance, caught up in a larger political struggle that he does not fully understand. Janusz sees in him something of his own son, and starts to question the very nature of justice.

The movie is an intense and gripping drama that explores the moral complexities of life under communism. Director Wojciech Smarzowski does an excellent job of depicting the oppressive atmosphere of the era, with its pervasive sense of fear and mistrust. Piotr Machalica gives a strong performance as Janusz, portraying a man torn between his duty to uphold the law and his conscience.

Małgorzata Foremniak, playing Janusz's wife, is equally impressive. Her character is a quiet but strong presence throughout the movie, providing a counterpoint to Janusz's stern demeanor. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Bartosz Zukowski as the young defendant and Eryk Lubos as his father.

The movie's themes are powerful and thought-provoking, asking questions about justice, personal responsibility, and the price of integrity. Janusz's journey is a compelling one, as he confronts his own flaws and limitations in the face of an unjust system. Ultimately, the movie is a testament to the human spirit and its endless capacity for resilience and hope.

In conclusion, Father's Law is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that explores the moral complexities of life under communism. With its strong performances, gripping storyline, and powerful themes, it is a movie that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Father's Law is a 1999 international movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes.