Filip Bajon’s first full-length feature is a period biopic of legendary Polish wrestler Zbyszek Cyganiewicz (1879 –1967), portrayed in the film by Krzysztof Majchrzak. The young Zbyszko is first drawn to the sport when a travelling circus sets up in his area, among whose attractions are the enthralling Abs brothers. When the circus manager calls for a local volunteer to attempt a match-up with his wrestlers, Zbyszko steps forward and is impressive enough to be added to the attraction’s roster, though only for a short time.

However, his strength and abilities have been noted, and he is quickly recruited by legitimate promoters thus beginning a long, successful and often controversial career. Bajon’s artistic approach to the material is the perfect blend of the lowbrow with the highbrow, and makes for an engrossing film.

This film is screening as part of Kinopolis: 7th Polish Film Festival (November 8th – 11th, 2012).