The nationwide release came ahead of the 80th anniversary of the iconic Battle of Monte Cassino, which marked a major Allied victory over Nazi German forces in 1944.
At the heart of Red Poppies, directed by Krzysztof Łukaszewicz, is the story of the 2nd Polish Corps, who overcame the daunting defenses of Monte Cassino and the Benedictine Abbey, paving the way for the Allies' advance into Rome.
'An extremely important film for the younger generation'
Nicolas Przygoda, who portrays Jędrek Zahorski, a young soldier torn between his personal beliefs and the realities of war, described Red Poppies as "an extremely important film for the younger generation."
Szymon Warszawski, who stepped into the shoes of tank commander Stanisław Zahorski, shared insights about the film's authentic portrayal of war's brutality. "It was a unique adventure ... I am full of admiration for those people," he told public broadcaster Polish Radio’s IAR news agency.
"Red Poppies" actors Szymon Warszawski and Nicolas Przygoda. Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara
The film also spotlights the oft-overlooked role of women in the conflict.
Magdalena Żak honors these heroines through her portrayal of Pola, a paramedic risking her life to save soldiers. "I believe that the role of women is very much overlooked ... I set a goal to commemorate all women," she said.
Magdalena Żak and Nicolas Przygoda. Magdalena Żak and Nicolas Przygoda
Michał Żurawski plays Gen. Władysław Anders, the man who formed and led the 2nd Polish Corps.
Polish actor Michał Żurawski. Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara
"The fascinating aspect of this profession is taking on a monument and bringing it to life as a human being," Żurawski said of his impersonation of the Polish WWII military leader.
As Poland and Italy prepare to commemorate the historic battle, Red Poppies emerges as a cinematic tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers of the 2nd Polish Corps.
Lech Parell, head of Poland’s Office for Veterans and Victims of Repression, hailed the film as a means to preserve the memory of their heroism.
"It was we Poles who planted the red-and-white flag on the ruins of the Monte Cassino monastery ... so let's commemorate this battle, our glorious victory," Parell said.
"Go, tell Poland, O stranger passing by, that here we lie..."
The hills of Monte Cassino with their fortified Benedictine monastery were a key German defensive position along the so-called Gustav line, designed to prevent the Allies from taking Rome during World War II.
The 2nd Polish Corps commanded by Gen. Anders captured Monte Cassino on May 18, 1944, after 123 days of fierce fighting.
The victory cost the lives of 923 Polish troops, with 2,931 wounded and 345 declared missing in action.
By the time the war ended in 1945, a Polish military cemetery was established on the slopes of Monte Cassino, which today is a major site of national remembrance for Poles.
A total of 1,072 Polish soldiers are buried there, among them Gen. Anders, who died in London in 1970.
A sign on the cemetery wall says: "Go, tell Poland, O stranger passing by, that here we lie—having fallen faithful in her service."
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Source: Polskie Radio, IAR, PAP