L'aveu meets Katharina Blum in this phenomenal Polish film exploring the grim reality behind bars, behind the iron curtain. Interrogation is superbly written, directed and played, and as realistic as it is horrific. Janda's tormented features superficially resemble Maria Falconetti of Dreyer's Jeanne d'Arc, but Bugajski wisely dodges Christian symbolism. This "Passion" is that of a real person, one of many, not a saint, making it all the more inspirational when Tonia exhibits courage.

A movie that succeeds mainly on the strengths of its leading actress. Krystyna Janda's portrayal of Tonia, a woman unwilling to abandon her last strands of dignity and integrity, is pitch perfect. She makes sure that Tonia's courage never comes across as naive; only a faint cry for decency is ever expressed and rarely answered. It does have some pacing issues, especially towards the end, and I didn't quite buy the romantic subplot, but these are minor quibbles. Grim and realistic.

This is a film that will make an impression and is apt to stay with you long after you see it. Accomplished in every way.