The Art of Loving

The Art of Loving is a Polish biographical film released in 2017, directed by the veteran filmmaker Maria Sadowska. The film is centered around the extraordinary life of Michalina Wisłocka, a character of immense resilience portrayed brilliantly by Magdalena Boczarska. The inspirational narrative offers a deep dive into the double life of the pioneering doctor, who shatters taboos and pays tribute to feminine sexuality.

Set in an era where discussions about sex and sexual health were deemed scandalous and offensive, the movie spins an intriguing narrative of Dr. Wisłocka’s journey to demystify female sexuality in conservative Poland. Wisłocka spends her career writing a landmark manual, 'The Art of Loving.' The tribulations she navigates through to publish this work are told with charm and sensitivity in this film.

The Art of Loving sees Wisłocka as a passionate doctor, drawn towards gynecology in a time that left little to no room for female medical practitioners. Piotr Adamczyk plays the role of her psychiatrist husband, and the dynamics of their complex marriage are explored through the narrative. Karolina Gruszka, another skilled actress, joins the cast in the role of a close friend, whose life also helps to unravel the story further.

The film explores Wisłocka's initial medical career in an obstetrics unit, where she witnesses firsthand the issues faced by women due to a lack of sexual education. It portrays her life spanning from her early years in the 1940s to her growing fame and recognition in the late 1970s. This journey highlights the hardships she endures, both professionally and personally, with some parts even hinting at the bohemian life she led.

More than just a biographical film, The Art of Loving is a social commentary targeted at the conservative society of Poland. The movie daringly delves into the agonies and repression experienced by women concerning their sexuality, using light humor and mockery to address the stigma surrounding sexual health discussions.

Her vociferous and bold stance against the government’s repressive regulations addressing sexuality, contraception, and women’s reproductive rights forms the crux of The Art of Loving. The detailed storyline lays out the legal and societal backlash Wisłocka confronted in her quest to foster sexual wellness and spread awareness about sex without fear or embarrassment.

The Art of Loving showcases her struggles to obtain permission to publish her book from both medical and censorship committees. Her book, when finally published, becomes a beacon of enlightenment in the then-Polish society, selling over seven million copies, thus marking the dawn of sexual awareness in Poland.

The compelling storyline is complemented by exceptional performances from the lead cast. Boczarska’s portrayal of Wisłocka paints her as a fiery, determined, and resilient woman who, armed with her candidness and strength, pushed through the societal and bureaucratic hurdles. The elements of her personal life, including her complex relationship with her husband and her association with her close friend, are skillfully interwoven into the narrative.

The Art of Loving also shines in its repertoire of supporting characters, each of them impacting Wisłocka's journey in a unique way. Every role, whether major or minor, contributes to building the societal and domestic landscapes shaping Wisłocka's life and work.

Featuring exceptional cinematography, the film brings to life the vintage aesthetics of the mid-20th century era in Poland. The historical accuracy of sets, costuming, and locations lend an immersive quality to the film, transporting the viewer back in time.

The film is packed with a blend of drama, humor, and heart-wrenching realism, classifying it as a bittersweet viewing experience. Despite its dramatic context, the film skillfully balances humor and wit, underpinning the dialogue and freshening the take on what could have been a heavy subject.

Overall, The Art of Loving lives up to its name, beautifully capturing the essence of Dr. Michalina Wisłocka's spirit and work. It boldly confronts the themes of sexuality, female empowerment, and the need for sex education, making it an important cinematic piece, particularly in this day and age. The combination of a compelling story, stellar performances, precise direction, and clean humor makes The Art of Loving a film worthy of being watched.