Lesser Evil

The film depicts a writer who becomes known after publishing a poem in a prominent monthly magazine, "Nowy Wyraz." As he navigates the privileges that come with his newfound status, he juggles relationships with both the ruling powers and the opposition. His academic pursuits falter while he maneuvers through the political landscape of the time.

In a psychiatric institution, the writer encounters a schizophrenic patient who is working on a novel. Following the patient's tragic suicide, the protagonist seizes the opportunity to publish the work as his own, leading to increased fame and wealth. The backdrop of the film is set against the burgeoning political unrest of August '80, adding depth to the narrative and reflecting the tumultuous historical context in which it unfolds.