Identify this disturbing Polish film 1960s or earlier

August 9, 2007 7:32 AM

Help me remember this disturbing Polish movie from the 60s or earlier

I saw this movie as a kid sometime before 1971. It was shown at an indie theatre, just a special weekend thing of interest to Polish people. I always thought it was The Teutonic Knights but seemingly not, as that one is in colour. I remember the film being in black and white, though I could be mistaken. The one thing that vividly sticks in my mind is a scene with a legless man walking on his hands through the royal court and someone with a large spike through his tongue as well. I remember these bizarre images having a sadistic element to them somehow. I have always found it really odd I got taken to that movie as a kid under 10 years old, and I'd really like to see it now as an adult.

posted by Listener to media & arts (4 answers total)

So it's a period piece? What century was it set in, do you recall? Set during a war? Two wild guesses - Colonel Wolodyjowski (color) or Siberian Lady Macbeth (b&w).
posted by iconomy at 8:17 AM on August 9, 2007

It seemed like it was set in a medieval court. Can't pick a century, though. I remember a dungeon and I guess we saw the Teutonic Knights also, if that was not in fact it. Thanks for your suggestions.
posted by Listener at 10:38 AM on August 9, 2007

The Saragossa Manuscript? Haven't seen it in years, but it's BW, Polish, and legendary for it's mindblowing medieval-esque imagery.
posted by ellanea at 11:05 AM on August 9, 2007

More about the Saragossa Manuscript.
posted by oneirodynia at 2:07 PM on August 9, 2007