“Forgotten Love,” directed by Michal Gazda for Netflix, is based on the iconic Polish novel ‘Znachor’ (also known as The Quack), written by Tadeusz Doga-Mostowicz. It has already been adapted twice, once in a 1937 film directed by Micha Waszyski (released the same year the book was written) and then in a 1982 film directed by Jerzy Hoffman.
The latest film features a superb cast that includes Leszek Lichota, Maria Kowalska, and Ignacy Liss, all of whom give outstanding performances.
The plot revolves around Professor Rafal Wilczur, a once-respected surgeon who loses both his memory and his family as a result of a tragic incident. As fate reunites him and his daughter, the film beautifully mixes themes of love, persistence, and the enduring power of human connections.
Leszek Lichota’s portrayal of Rafal portrays a moving portrait of a guy with a golden heart juggling professional success and emotional hardship. Despite time and memory loss, Rafal’s never-ending love for his daughter remains the emotional core. The film bravely examines parenthood, integrity, and commitment, creating a very emotional story.
“Forgotten Love” – A testament to human strength and enduring love
Through Professor Rafal’s painful experiences, “Forgotten Love” bravely addresses topics of parenthood, professional integrity, and devotion. The film’s emotional core lies in Rafal’s emotional reunion with his daughter after a fifteen-year separation.
The film also shows glimpses of the social situations, the human connections, and the contrast between social statuses, the challenges and disparities experienced by individuals from poor backgrounds.
Each essential character in the film is very well-written and presented with enough screen time to establish them as integral parts of a fascinating and heartbreaking narrative. Furthermore, the character of Rafal’s supposed friend, Jerzy, is the darker element of the story and adds depth to the characters and their relationships.
As far as emotional drama is concerned, “Forgotten Love” will definitely draw your attention with its interesting storyline. The film’s cinematography further enhances the story’s gloomy mood and conveys the characters’ delicate emotions.
However, the climax with the events leading up to the father-daughter reunion feels rushed. Moreover, as viewers, we do not get any sense of action against those who drove Rafal into his horrible experience.