Starring: Borys Szyc, Robert Więckiewicz, Kamila Baar, Tadeusz Hagen
Directed by: Juliusz Machulski
With the return of Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine to Krakow, local art lovers are eagerly awaiting a glimpse after her long, long trip abroad. In the meantime, catch Vinci – a thriller that puts the famed work centre stage as the target of master criminals. Vinci is less a crime-comedy and more a heist movie with a sense of humour.
The picture could have turned out formulaic under the guidance of a lesser director, but Juliusz Machulski has struck a rare balance between realistic dialogue and entertaining banter between his stars. He uses Krakow as a fitting backdrop for an elaborate plan to steal the city’s greatest work of art.
Robert Więckiewicz, a frequent collaborator with Machulski, delivers an understated performance as Cuma – a career criminal recently released from prison on fabricated claims of ill health. His motive all along is to steal the cherished painting. Cuma’s partner, Julian, played by Borys Szyc, has joined the police during Cuma’s prison term, and is torn about joining his old friend for the job. Kamila Baar plays Magda, a savvy art forger recruited by the two conmen, but unaware of their true intentions. The director’s father, Jan Machulski, gives a compelling performance as Tadeusz Hagen – Magda’s grandfather and mentor.
While most of the plot is focused on the team’s intricate set-up, almost all of the suspense is reserved for the film’s climax. The ending is something of a twist, although keen viewers might be able to see it coming. In general, Vinci is a worthwhile picture representative of the growing stature of contemporary Polish cinema.
Originally published by The Krakow Post on May 19, 2012