Roman Polanski is a Polish-French film director and producer. He has also directed and produced many other films, including Tess, Rosemary’s Baby and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.

He was born in Paris to Polish parents, Władysław and Annette Polańska. He studied at Gdańsk University and then at the University of Paris.

Best Roman Polanski Movies

Let’s take a look at the best Roman Polanski films of all time.

1. Chinatown (1974)   

Chinatown is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time as a true masterpiece of the film noir genre.

Directed by Roman Polanski and starring Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and John Huston, this film is a must-see for any lover of great cinema.

The film is set in 1930s Los Angeles and follows private investigator J.J. “Jake” Gittes (Nicholson) as he is hired to investigate an adultery case.

However, as the case deepens, Gittes finds himself embroiled in a web of corruption, murder, and deceit that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.

The cinematography in Chinatown is breathtaking, with every shot carefully crafted to highlight the mood and tone of the film.

The score by Jerry Goldsmith is hauntingly beautiful, perfectly capturing the film’s noir atmosphere.

The performances by the cast are outstanding, with Nicholson giving a career-defining performance as the flawed but determined Gittes.

Dunaway is equally impressive as the enigmatic Evelyn Mulwray, while Huston steals the show as the villainous Noah Cross.

Chinatown is a film that rewards multiple viewings, with its complex plot and intricate details revealing new layers of meaning with each watch.

Its themes of corruption, power, and deceit are as relevant today as they were in the 1970s, making it a true classic of American cinema.

Chinatown
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Robert Towne (Writer) - Robert Evans (Producer)
  • Danish, German, English, Spanish, French (Playback Languages)
  • Danish, German, English, Spanish, French (Subtitles)

2. The Tenant (1976)

“The Tenant” is a true masterpiece of psychological horror, crafted with impeccable precision by the legendary filmmaker Roman Polanski.

   

The film follows the story of Trelkovsky, a timid and introverted man who moves into a Parisian apartment with a dark and mysterious past.

As Trelkovsky slowly uncovers the secrets of his new home, he becomes increasingly paranoid and delusional, convinced that his neighbors are conspiring against him.

The tension builds to a heart-stopping climax, as Trelkovsky’s grip on reality slips away and the lines between truth and illusion become blurred.

Polanski’s direction is masterful, building an atmosphere of dread and unease that lingers long after the film has ended.

The performances are fantastic, with Polanski himself giving a standout turn as Trelkovsky, perfectly capturing the character’s descent into madness.

“The Tenant” is a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish, with its haunting imagery and unforgettable story.

If you like Roman Polanski’s work, on our sister site AuteurGraph we have a profile page, a visual film timeline, and a ratings page that gives a tonne of info and data about their career in a visualized form.

It’s a must-watch for fans of psychological horror, and a true testament to Polanski’s genius as a filmmaker.

The Tenant
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Roman Polanski, Isabelle Adjani, Melvyn Douglas (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Roman Polanski (Writer) - Andrew Braunsberg (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

3. Knife in the Water (1962)  

“Knife in the Water” is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

   

Directed by the legendary Polish filmmaker Roman Polanski, the film tells the story of a couple who pick up a hitchhiker on their way to a sailing trip and the tense power struggle that ensues between the three characters.

The cinematography is simply stunning, with gorgeous shots of the Polish countryside and the vast, open water.

The use of sound is equally impressive, with the creaking of the boat and the sound of the waves adding to the tension and suspense.

The performances are top-notch, with Leon Niemczyk, Jolanta Umecka, and Zygmunt Malanowicz all delivering nuanced and complex portrayals of their characters.

The chemistry between them is palpable, and the dynamic between the three shifts and evolves in unexpected ways throughout the film.

Knife in the Water (English Subtitled)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Leon Niemczyk, Jolanta Umecka, Zygmunt Malanowicz (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Roman Polanski (Writer) - Stanislaw Zylewicz (Producer)
  • (Playback Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

4. The World’s Most Beautiful Swindlers (1964)

The World’s Most Beautiful Swindlers (1964) is a stylish and entertaining heist film that takes the viewer on a tour of some of the world’s most beautiful cities.

The film is an anthology of sorts, featuring four short stories that are loosely connected by the theme of con artists and their scams.

Each story is set in a different city, and the film does an excellent job of capturing the unique flavor and atmosphere of each location.

From the sun-soaked beaches of Rio de Janeiro to the bustling streets of Tokyo, the film takes the viewer on a whirlwind tour of the world.

The performances are uniformly excellent, with a talented cast of international actors bringing their characters to life with charm and charisma.

The standout performance comes from Jean Seberg, who shines as a young woman trying to pull off a daring con in Rome.

The cinematography is also a highlight of the film, with lush, colorful visuals that perfectly capture the glamour and excitement of these exotic locales.

The film’s stylish visuals are complemented by a jazzy score that perfectly captures the film’s breezy, carefree tone.

   
The World's Most Beautiful Swindlers [Blu-ray]
  • Jean Seberg, Catherine Deneuve, Jean-Pierre Cassel (Actors)
  • Jean-Luc Godard (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

5. Repulsion (1965)

“Repulsion” is a chilling masterpiece that will leave you unnerved and haunted long after the credits roll.

Roman Polanski’s direction is impeccable as he expertly builds tension and creates a claustrophobic atmosphere throughout the film.

Catherine Deneuve delivers a stunning performance as the fragile and isolated Carol, whose descent into madness and paranoia is both terrifying and heartbreaking to witness.

The use of sound and visual effects is particularly effective in creating an unsettling ambiance that perfectly complements the film’s themes of sexual repression and psychological disintegration.

“Repulsion” is a must-see for fans of psychological horror and is a true classic of the genre.

Repulsion
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Catherine Deneuve, Ian Hendry, John Fraser (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Gérard Brach (Writer) - Gene Gutowski (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

6. Cul-de-sac (1966)  

Cul-de-sac is a dark and twisted film that explores the depths of human relationships and the power dynamics that often come into play.

Directed by the legendary Roman Polanski, this film is a true masterpiece of cinema.

The story follows two criminals who take refuge in a remote castle on the English coast, where they encounter a married couple whose relationship is on the brink of collapse.

As the tension builds and the power shifts between the characters, we are taken on a thrilling and unpredictable ride that keeps us on the edge of our seats until the very end.

The performances in Cul-de-sac are simply outstanding.

Donald Pleasence is particularly impressive as the eccentric and unstable castle owner, while Lionel Stander delivers a standout performance as the rough and intimidating criminal.

The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their interactions are both fascinating and terrifying.

The cinematography in Cul-de-sac is also noteworthy, with the bleak and desolate landscape serving as the perfect backdrop for the film’s dark themes.

The use of shadows and lighting creates a haunting atmosphere that adds to the film’s overall sense of unease.

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7. The Fearless Vampire Killers (1967)

As someone who loves both horror films and Roman Polanski’s work, I was excited to finally watch The Fearless Vampire Killers.

And while it had its moments of humor and charm, overall it fell short of my expectations.

The film follows Professor Abronsius and his assistant Alfred as they travel to a remote Transylvanian village in search of vampires.

Along the way, they encounter a host of eccentric characters and stumble upon a vampire’s castle where they must rescue the professor’s love interest, Sarah.

While the film has some great comedic moments, particularly with the bumbling and naive Alfred, it also suffers from pacing issues and a lack of tension.

The vampire sequences, which should be the highlight of the film, are often slow and lack the necessary scares.

Additionally, the film’s treatment of female characters leaves much to be desired.

Sarah is reduced to a damsel in distress, while the other female characters are sexualized and objectified.

   

The Fearless Vampire Killers
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jack MacGowran, Roman Polanski, Alfie Bass (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Roman Polanski (Writer) - Gene Gutowski (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

8. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)       

Rosemary’s Baby is a classic horror film that still manages to send chills down your spine even after all these years.

Mia Farrow delivers a stunning performance as Rosemary, a young housewife who becomes pregnant after moving into a new apartment with her husband.

As her pregnancy progresses, she begins to suspect that something sinister is happening to her and her unborn child.

Director Roman Polanski masterfully builds tension throughout the film, creating an eerie atmosphere that keeps you on edge.

The slow, deliberate pacing only adds to the sense of dread and unease, making every twist and turn all the more shocking.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Ruth Gordon stealing the show as the nosy and eccentric neighbor, Minnie Castevet.

Her performance is both hilarious and terrifying, perfectly embodying the film’s blend of horror and dark comedy.

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9. Macbeth (1971)

Macbeth is a masterpiece of Shakespearean adaptation, beautifully directed by Roman Polanski.

Jon Finch delivers a haunting performance as the tragic hero, his descent into madness grippingly portrayed.

The cinematography is stunning, with the Scottish landscapes providing a haunting backdrop to the blood-soaked tale.

The use of sound and music is also noteworthy, adding to the ominous atmosphere throughout the film.

The supporting cast, including Francesca Annis as Lady Macbeth, is superb. Polanski’s vision of the play is dark and brooding, emphasizing the violence and brutality of the story.

This is a must-watch for fans of Shakespeare and classic cinema alike. Macbeth (1971) is a haunting and unforgettable adaptation that will leave you breathless.

The Tragedy Of Macbeth
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jon Finch, Francesca Annis, Martin Shaw (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - William Shakespeare (Writer) - Andrew Braunsberg (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

10.Tess (1979)

Tess is a sweeping and tragic period drama that tells the story of a young woman named Tess who is forced to confront the harsh realities of life in 19th century England.

Directed by Roman Polanski and based on the novel by Thomas Hardy, the film is a beautifully crafted and emotionally powerful exploration of love, loss, and the struggle for survival.

Nastassja Kinski gives a captivating performance as Tess, a strong-willed and resilient woman who is determined to overcome the challenges that life throws her way.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with strong turns from Peter Firth as Angel, Tess’s love interest, and Leigh Lawson as Alec, the wealthy landowner who threatens to destroy her life.

Polanski’s direction is masterful, capturing the lush landscapes and stunning cinematography of the English countryside while also bringing a sense of intimacy and emotional depth to the story.

The film’s themes of social class, gender roles, and the struggle for power and control are as relevant today as they were when the novel was first published.

Tess
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Nastassia Kinski, Peter Firth, Leigh Lawson (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Gérard Brach (Writer) - Claude Berri (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

11.Pirates (1986)

“Ahoy mateys! If you’re in the mood for some swashbuckling action, Pirates (1986) is the perfect film for you.

   

This adventure film directed by Roman Polanski tells the story of Captain Red (Walter Matthau), a charming but ruthless pirate who teams up with a young Frenchman, Jean-Baptiste (Cris Campion), to find a hidden treasure.

The film is a delightful mix of action, comedy, and romance.

The chemistry between Matthau and Campion is fantastic, as they embark on a perilous journey filled with sword fights, sea battles, and treasure hunts.

The supporting cast, including Charlotte Lewis as the beautiful and feisty Princess Lina, adds to the fun and excitement.

Polanski’s direction is superb, capturing the beauty and danger of the high seas with stunning visuals and thrilling set pieces.

The film’s score, composed by Philippe Sarde, is also a highlight, perfectly capturing the mood of each scene.

Pirates of Roman Polanski
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Walter Matthau, Cris Campion, Damien Thomas (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - John Brownjohn (Writer) - Tarak Ben Ammar (Producer)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese (Playback Languages)
  • English, Spanish, Portuguese (Subtitles)

12.Frantic (1988)

Frantic is a gripping thriller directed by Roman Polanski that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Harrison Ford delivers a fantastic performance as Dr. Richard Walker, a man searching for his missing wife in Paris.

The city is beautifully captured on screen, making it feel like a character in its own right.

The tension builds as Dr. Walker’s search leads him down a dangerous path, encountering shady characters and uncovering a sinister plot.

The film’s pacing is spot on, with intense action sequences interspersed with quieter moments of suspense.

Polanski masterfully builds the tension, creating a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll.

The score by Ennio Morricone is hauntingly beautiful, adding to the film’s overall atmosphere.

Frantic (1988)
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Harrison Ford, Betty Buckley, Emmanuelle Seigner (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Roman Polanski (Writer) - Thom Mount (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

13.Bitter Moon (1992)

Bitter Moon is a twisted and erotic masterpiece from director Roman Polanski.

The film tells the story of Nigel (Hugh Grant) and Fiona (Kristin Scott Thomas), a British couple on a cruise who are captivated by the mysterious and seductive couple, Oscar (Peter Coyote) and Mimi (Emmanuelle Seigner).

Polanski expertly weaves a tale of lust, obsession, and power dynamics that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The performances are outstanding, particularly Coyote and Seigner who bring Oscar and Mimi to life with a raw sensuality and complexity that is both captivating and unsettling.

The cinematography is also a standout, with the intimate and claustrophobic setting of the cruise ship adding to the tension and eroticism of the story.

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14.Death and the Maiden (1994)

“Death and the Maiden” is a gripping and intense film that explores the aftermath of a brutal dictatorship in an unnamed South American country.

The film follows Paulina Escobar (played brilliantly by Sigourney Weaver), a former political prisoner who is haunted by the memories of her torture and rape at the hands of the regime.

When her husband Gerardo (Stuart Wilson) brings home a stranger who he believes may have been one of her torturers, Paulina takes matters into her own hands and confronts the man, played by Ben Kingsley.

What follows is a tense and harrowing battle of wills as Paulina seeks justice for the horrors she endured.

Director Roman Polanski does an excellent job of building tension and keeping the audience on the edge of their seats throughout the film.

The performances from the three leads are outstanding, with Weaver in particular delivering a powerful and emotionally charged performance.

Death And The Maiden (1994) ( Death & The Maiden ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, Blu-Ray, Reg.B Import - Germany ]
  • Death And The Maiden (1994) ( Death & The Maiden )
  • Death And The Maiden (1994)
  • Death & The Maiden
  • Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley, Stuart Wilson (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Death And The Maiden (1994) ( Death & The Maiden ) (Producer)

15.The Ninth Gate (1999)          

“The Ninth Gate” directed by Roman Polanski is a devilishly entertaining thriller that delves into the world of rare books and the occult.

Johnny Depp delivers a captivating performance as a book dealer hired to authenticate a rare tome that is believed to hold the secret to summoning Satan himself.

The film’s strong visual style and eerie atmosphere keep the audience on the edge of their seats as Depp’s character uncovers a deadly conspiracy and encounters a series of mysterious women who may be more than they seem.

The plot twists and turns in unexpected ways, leading to a satisfying and chilling conclusion.

16.The Pianist (2002)   

“The Pianist” is hauntingly beautiful that tells the story of Władysław Szpilman’s survival during the Holocaust.

Adrien Brody gives a mesmerizing performance as Szpilman, capturing the desperation and hopelessness of his character as he navigates the horrors of war-torn Warsaw.

Director Roman Polanski expertly portrays the atrocities of the Nazi regime, while also shining a light on the resilience of the human spirit.

The film’s score, composed by Wojciech Kilar, is hauntingly beautiful and adds an additional layer of emotion to an already powerful story.

“The Pianist” is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, human nature, and the power of art to endure in the face of unimaginable adversity.

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17.Oliver Twist (2005) 

Oliver Twist is a visually stunning adaptation of the Charles Dickens.

Director Roman Polanski brings the dark and gritty world of Victorian England to life with exquisite attention to detail.

The film boasts a strong cast, with standout performances from young actor Barney Clark as the titular Oliver, and Ben Kingsley as the menacing Fagin.

The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, including Jamie Foreman as the brutal Bill Sikes and Mark Strong as the mysterious Mr. Brownlow.

Polanski’s direction and use of cinematography create a bleak and oppressive atmosphere that perfectly captures the harsh realities of life in 19th century London.

The film’s score, composed by Rachel Portman, adds an emotional depth to the story, enhancing the impact of the film’s more intense moments.

While the film does take liberties with the original source material, it still manages to capture the heart and soul of Dickens’ novel.

Oliver Twist
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Ben Kingsley, Barney Clark, Jamie Foreman (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Charles Dickens (Writer) - Robert Benmussa (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

18.To Each His Own Cinema (2007)

To Each His Own Cinema is a unique and captivating film that showcases the works of some of the greatest directors of our time.

Each director was tasked with creating a short film that reflects their personal style and vision, resulting in a collection of diverse and thought-provoking vignettes.

The film is a celebration of cinema in all its forms, from the silent era to modern-day blockbusters. It explores the power of filmmaking to transport us to different worlds, evoke emotions, and challenge our perspectives.

The themes explored in the individual shorts range from love and loss to politics and social commentary, making for a truly dynamic viewing experience.

What sets this film apart is the sheer talent of the directors involved. From the legendary Jean-Luc Godard to the up-and-coming Gus Van Sant, each director brings their unique voice and perspective to the table.

The result is a film that feels like a masterclass in filmmaking, with each short showcasing the director’s technical prowess and storytelling ability.

To Each His Own Cinema is a must-watch for cinephiles and anyone who appreciates the art of filmmaking.

It’s a film that reminds us of the power of storytelling and the infinite possibilities of the medium.

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19.The Ghost Writer (2010)

Polanski’s The Ghost Writer is a taut political thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Ewan McGregor gives a career-best performance as the titular ghost writer, tasked with completing the memoirs of a former British Prime Minister played by Pierce Brosnan.

The film’s sleek, stylish visuals and haunting score create an eerie atmosphere that perfectly complements the story’s twists and turns.

As the ghost writer delves deeper into the Prime Minister’s past, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that threaten to destroy not only his own life, but the lives of those around him.

The supporting cast, which includes Olivia Williams, Kim Cattrall, and Tom Wilkinson, is uniformly excellent, bringing depth and nuance to their respective roles.

The Ghost Writer is a masterclass in tension-building, with each scene ratcheting up the stakes and leaving you guessing until the very end.

Polanski’s direction is confident and assured, making this one of his best films in years.

The Ghost Writer
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Ewan McGregor, Jon Bernthal, James Belushi (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Robert Harris (Writer) - Robert Benmussa (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned)

20.Carnage (2011)

“Carnage” is a darkly comedic masterpiece that showcases the worst in human behavior.

Directed by Roman Polanski and adapted from a play by Yasmina Reza, the film follows two sets of parents who meet to discuss a playground altercation between their children.

What starts as a civilized conversation quickly devolves into a series of vicious personal attacks and alcohol-fueled outbursts.

The film’s four leads, Jodie Foster, Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz, and John C. Reilly, all deliver incredible performances that capture the absurdity and desperation of their characters.

Foster and Winslet play uptight and self-righteous mothers, while Waltz and Reilly portray bumbling and defensive fathers.

The chemistry between the actors is electric, and their rapid-fire dialogue creates a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere.

Polanski’s direction is masterful, as he expertly uses the confined space of the apartment to heighten the tension and expose the characters’ flaws.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with the camera often lingering on the characters’ faces, capturing their expressions of disgust, anger, and frustration.

Carnage
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jodie Foster, Joe Rezwin, Kate Winslet (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Yasmina Reza (Writer) - Said Ben Said (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

21.Venus in Fur (2013)

As a lover of both cinema and theater, I was immediately drawn to Roman Polanski’s “Venus in Fur.” Based on the Tony Award-winning play by David Ives, the film tells the story of a director auditioning actresses for his adaptation of Leopold von Sacher-Masoch’s “Venus in Furs,” a novel that inspired the term “masochism.”

Emmanuelle Seigner gives a tour-de-force performance as Vanda, an actress who seems to embody the character of the book’s protagonist, Wanda von Dunayev.

She is the perfect match for Mathieu Amalric’s Thomas, the director who initially dismisses her as too vulgar for the part.

However, as the audition progresses, the lines between reality and fiction blur, and the power dynamics between the two characters shift in unexpected ways.

Polanski’s direction is masterful in creating a sense of claustrophobia and intensity within the confines of the theater.

The film is essentially a two-hander between Seigner and Amalric, and they both deliver nuanced performances that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

“Venus in Fur” is a provocative and thought-provoking film that explores themes of power, desire, and control.

It’s a must-see for fans of both theater and cinema, and a testament to the enduring power of Sacher-Masoch’s novel. Highly recommended.

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Venus in Furs
  • Audible Audiobook
  • Leopold von Sacher-Masoch (Author) - Zachary Johnson, Verla Bond (Narrators)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 10/12/2021 (Publication Date) - Spoken Realms (Publisher)

22.D’après une histoire vraie (I) (2017)

D’après une histoire vraie (I) is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking film that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Based on a true story, this film tells the tale of a writer struggling to overcome writer’s block and the charismatic woman who enters her life and takes over her writing.

The performances in this film are outstanding, with Emmanuelle Seigner delivering a haunting portrayal of the enigmatic woman who becomes the writer’s muse.

Eva Green also shines as the writer, perfectly capturing the vulnerability and desperation of someone who has lost her sense of self.

Director Roman Polanski masterfully weaves together the elements of mystery, suspense, and psychological drama to create a film that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

The cinematography is stunning, with each shot beautifully composed and expertly crafted to draw the viewer deeper into the story.

Based on a True Story (2017) ( D'après une histoire vraie ) [ NON-USA FORMAT, PAL, Reg.2 Import - Spain ]
  • Based on a True Story (2017) ( D'après une histoire vraie )
  • Based on a True Story (2017)
  • D'après une histoire vraie
  • Vincent Perez, Dominique Pinon, Emmanuelle Seigner (Actors)
  • Roman Polanski (Director) - Based on a True Story (2017) ( D'après une histoire vraie ) (Producer)

23.An Officer and a Spy (2019)

An Officer and a Spy is a compelling and thought-provoking historical drama that explores the infamous Dreyfus Affair in turn-of-the-century France.

The film, directed by Roman Polanski, follows the story of Georges Picquart (played brilliantly by Jean Dujardin), a French army officer who uncovers evidence suggesting that Alfred Dreyfus, a Jewish officer, was wrongly accused of treason and convicted in a military court.

The film’s pacing is deliberate and measured, allowing the tension to build gradually as Picquart becomes increasingly embroiled in the scandal and faces mounting pressure to keep quiet.

The cinematography is stunning, capturing the grandeur of Paris and the eerie atmosphere of the military tribunal rooms.

Dujardin’s performance is nuanced and restrained, conveying Picquart’s internal struggle as he grapples with his loyalty to the army versus his commitment to justice.

The supporting cast is also excellent, particularly Emmanuelle Seigner as Picquart’s lover and Louis Garrel as Dreyfus.

While the film may be controversial due to Polanski’s own controversial past, it remains a powerful and engaging exploration of a pivotal moment in French history.

An Officer and a Spy is a must-see for anyone interested in historical dramas, political thrillers, or complex character studies.

Characteristics of Roman Polanski Movies

 The most important characteristic of all of Roman Polanski’s movies is that, in his own words, they are “tender.” Polanski’s tenderness has been described as “a way of seeing, a way of listening.” His films are about emotions and relationships.

The tenderness in these films is not just a matter of mood; it is also a technical achievement. The director uses the camera to show us the world through our own eyes and ears.

In Rosemary’s Baby (1968), for example, we see the streets at night through Rosemary’s eyes. We hear her thoughts as she walks down them.

And we see how she reacts to things around her: the trees, the sky and other people’s faces.

Polanski often uses light and shadow to create an emotional impact on his audience.

For example, in Repulsion (1965), there are scenes where objects cast shadows over characters’ faces; these shadows turn them into monsters who cannot be trusted or befriended by others because they have no faces left except those shadows on their own bodies.

Best Roman Polanski Movies – Wrapping Up

Roman Polanski is a cinematic master. He has made some truly great films, and we are lucky enough to have several of them in this list. T

here are many more that are still worth seeing, but these are the ones Roman Polanski fans will want to see the most.

 

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