After the success of Color of evil: redProsecutor Leopold Bilski returns in Colors of Evil: Black. The new crime thriller proves that Poland has firmly established itself as a dark thriller powerhouse. Director Adrian Paneke delivers a sequel that’s even grittier, more intense, and sometimes more devastating than its predecessor.
In the small Kashubian town of Kartuzi, a young girl disappears without a trace. Prosecutor Leopold Bilski, once again played by Jakub Gierszal, is assigned to the investigation along with assistant prosecutor Ania Górska (Marianna Zydek). It soon becomes clear that the case may be linked to a series of earlier disappearances. As the investigators dig deeper, they find themselves up against a community that would rather remain silent than expose the truth.
The tension of the film never really subsides.
The film establishes an unsettling mood from the beginning and maintains it for almost the entire 110-minute running time. It doesn’t shy away from difficult subject matter, showing the devastating impact violence and crime can have on people’s lives. Because the story focuses so heavily on young victims, it is often particularly difficult. Viewers who have children of their own may find some scenes particularly difficult to watch. Sometimes, the emotional burden is truly heartbreaking.
that makes Colors of evil: black Anything other than easy background viewing. This isn’t the kind of film you just throw on while doing laundry or doing chores around the house. Quite the opposite. Film often creates a feeling of discomfort that persists long after a scene has ended.
Image: Netflix PL
A mystery that’s easy to solve but hard to forget
While many modern thrillers play it safe, this Polish production is willing to push it further. The violence is never made to look cute, and some moments are really hard to watch. Those who want a seriously tough crime thriller with a dark edge will find a lot to enjoy here. That said, the mystery isn’t particularly hard to figure out. It’s clear early on where the story is headed, and it doesn’t always work in its favor. The real tension comes less from uncovering the truth and more from the film’s oppressive atmosphere, which keeps you on edge even when the plot’s biggest mysteries aren’t much of a mystery anymore.
There’s plenty of source material left to explore
The film is based on the second novel of the popular book series by Małgorzata Olivia Sobczak. After the success of Color of evil: redIt appears that Netflix has a franchise on its hands that could continue for years. Several books in the series are available for adaptation. Whether Netflix moves forward with a third film, or perhaps even more, will likely depend on viewership.
Image: Netflix PL
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It’s hard not to see Jakob Gierszaal as the film’s standout performer.
The actor brings a cool, almost icy presence to the screen that is perfect for the dark atmosphere Color of evil: black. As a result, Leopold Bilski remains a fascinating character worth following. You never feel like you fully understand him, and that mystery only makes him more interesting. The supporting cast also does a great job. No one feels out of place, and every performance fits seamlessly into the dark and unsettling tone of the film.
decision
Colors of evil: black It takes everything that worked in its predecessor and takes it one step further. The film proves that Poland has become a reliable source of dark thrillers with a distinct identity. Viewers looking for a mystery that keeps them guessing till the end may be a bit disappointed, as the film reveals itself quite early. Fortunately, it more than makes up for it with its oppressive atmosphere, emotional weight and strong performances.
This is not a film that everyone will like. You will either be completely sucked into its dark world or you will find its dark colors a little difficult to handle. but if you enjoyed Color of evil: redThen seeing black is a very easy task. Now we can only hope that Netflix gives the green light to a third film. If it were up to me, Leopold Bilski’s next case wouldn’t come so soon.
