Carefree metalhead Jacek is engaged to beautiful Dagmara and working construction on what is supposed to be the world's tallest statue of Jesus when a shocking accident completely changes his life. Malgorzata Szumowska provides another powerful indictment of provincial Poland's hypocrisy, prejudice and fear of difference in this tragicomedy, as a young man's face transplant brings out the worst in his small-town neighbors.
When Jacek returns home after his breakthrough surgery even some members of his own family don't know how to deal with his changed appearance; his elderly mother organizes an exorcism just in case he's possessed. Only Jacek's practical and loving older sister provides the support he needs. Working with her longtime collaborators behind the camera and on-screen, Szumowska brilliantly blends realism, streaks of fantasy and dark humor. Winner, Grand Jury Prize, 2018 Berlinale.
Director Biography
Malgorzata Szumowska was born in Poland on February 26th, 1973. Her work in film has garnered numerous awards and nominations, including a Teddy Award at Berlin's International Film Festival (for her 2013 film In The Name Of).
Press
"Mug is a strange, engaging film – well and potently acted and directed, a drama that puts you inside its extended community with a mix of robust realism and a streak of fantasy comedy." - The Guardian
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