Known as the best satire about communism, banned for over a decade in Hungary. ‘The Witness’ has become a cult classic, well received by critics and general audiences when it was finally released outside of Hungary. ‘The Witness’ takes place during the height of the Rákosi Era, which was closely modeled after the ruthless and brutal Stalin regime. The film follows the life of an ordinary dike keeper, József Pelikán, who has been caught for illegally slaughtering his pig, Dezsõ. Instead of doing hard time for his “heinous” crime, Pelikán is elevated into an important position, generally reserved for the communist elite. His new benefactor, the mysterious Comrade Virág, is reluctant to reveal the real reason behind Pelikán’s preferential treatment. Thus, begins Pelikán’s hilarious adventure deep within the “sophisticated” communist society… Until one day, when he gets called for to return the “favour” by falsely testifying against his long-time friend in a mock-up show trial.
The Witness
A tanú
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A tanú with English subtitles
At Eastern European Movies, you're invited to immerse yourself in the captivating world of The Witness (A tanú), a cinematic journey hailing from Hungary. Released in 1969, this film is a quintessential piece of Comedy and Drama, deftly crafted by the renowned director Péter Bacsó, and brought to life through the compelling performances of a skilled cast, including Béla Both, Ferenc Kállai and Lajos Öze.
As a film enthusiast, you understand the richness of diverse cinema. That's why we ensure that each film, such as The Witness, is accompanied by subtitles in various languages, including English, Hungarian, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish, to bridge the gap between cultures and to provide an inclusive cinematic experience for all.
Exploring the nuances of Hungary's society and culture, The Witness offers a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Whether you're a native speaker looking to revisit the classics of your homeland or a student of the language and culture seeking a deeper understanding, this film presents an opportunity to do so through the compelling medium of cinema.
The legacy of Eastern European cinema is vividly brought to life here, with films that resonate with universal themes and emotions, transcending geographical and linguistic boundaries. We are committed to presenting films that not only entertain but also educate and inspire our audience.