Synopsis

Jerzy Skolimowski’s first feature-length film exhibits strong autobiographical leanings and is regarded as one of the milestones of the so-called New Wave, which took hold of Polish cinema in the early 1960s. This innovative work consists of only 29 scenes. The main role of a seemingly frustrated, aimless and provoking anti-hero, who is basically just searching for his place in life, is played by the screen writer and director himself. Andrzej, the protagonist, has been living with his girlfriend in a cheap apartment for several years now. While she has to work regular hours, he listlessly studies from time to time, but mostly just procrastinates. One day, to everyone’s surprise, he voluntarily applies for military service. He is convinced that only the military can make him a man. The medical examination committee declares him fit, and writes down “No identification marks”. He has only few hours left until his induction. The film records this short waiting period, and was able to outline the awareness, perceptions and problems of a whole generation of often sceptical young Polish adults. A sophisticated film with associative imagery and historic cinematic significance.