In 1776 Vienna, imperial counselor Henryk Klein investigates allegations that the charismatic Jewish nobleman Jakub Frank is a fraud whose sect has ruined Galician Jew Jakub Goliński’s family and fortunes. As Klein’s inquiry uncovers Frank’s secret militia, escalating influence, and suspected treason against Empress Maria Theresa’s court, he must decide how far to expose the messianic impostor without igniting sectarian unrest.
Acting
Olgierd Łukaszewicz's Frank radiates dangerous charisma—you get why people followed him.
Production
Claustrophobic candlelit interiors that reek of 18th-century anxiety and unwashed wigs.
Director
Adrian Panek
Andrzej Chyra
Jakub Goliński
Mariusz Bonaszewski
Henryk Klein
Olgierd Łukaszewicz
Jakub Frank
Janusz Chabior
Łabędzki
Robert Gonera
Piasecki
Sławomir Orzechowski
adviser Grossen
Magdalena Czerwińska
Golińska
Maciej Tomaszewski
Hendel
Krzysztof Dracz
doctor
Danuta Stenka
duchess
Jan Nowicki
count Von Nogai
Maciej Stuhr
cesarz Józef II
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Jakub Frank was a real historical figure whose Sabbatian sect actually existed; thousands converted to Catholicism under his influence in 18th-century Poland.
Director Adrian Panek later made 'Werewolf' (2018), suggesting he has a thing for historical trauma and bodies in peril.
PL
