The Pianist

El pianista

"The Pianist," directed by Mario Gas, is a poignant Spanish drama steeped in music and rich with emotional depth, set against the vibrant backdrop of mid-'80s Barcelona. The story unfolds when the renowned composer Lluis Doria, portrayed by Laurent Terzieff, strolls into an atmospheric transvestite club, where he reunites with an old friend, Albert Rossell. Played by the talented Serge Reggiani, Rossell is the club's house pianist, and this fateful encounter sparks a journey through their shared past, revealing the intricacies of their friendship and the impact of their choices on their lives.

The narrative deftly shifts back in time, taking us four decades earlier to the tumultuous post-war landscape, where a younger Rossell, played by Pere Ponce, finds himself reintegrating into society after serving years in prison for his alliance with anti-Franco anarchists. His reunion with Teresa, depicted by Paulina Galvez, rekindles old flames and gives rise to new tensions as they navigate the challenges of a repressive regime. The haunting melodies of their shared history underscore the significance of love, loyalty, and the sacrifices made in the name of freedom, illuminating the struggles that shape their identities.

As the film weaves through the enchanting streets of 1930s Paris, where Doria and Rossell first forged their connection through a shared passion for music and their affection for Teresa, we witness the divergence of their paths brought on by the looming shadow of civil war. The delightful camaraderie, creative aspirations, and the romantic entanglements ultimately lay the groundwork for the life-altering decisions they are compelled to make. 'The Pianist' is not just a tribute to music; it is a profound exploration of humanity’s resilience in the face of oppression, loss, and the enduring power of friendship.

Full Cast of The Pianist

Jordi Mollà as Doria 20 años

Jordi Mollà

Doria 20 años
In the poignant historical drama "The Pianist," Jordi Mollà delivers a compelling performance as the character Doria 20 años, a young Spaniard who meets the protagonist, Władysław Szpilman, during the harrowing days of the Warsaw Ghetto in World War II. Mollà's portrayal is marked by a raw intensity and a palpable sense of camaraderie and compassion as he shares moments of hope and humanity amidst the bleak despair of the ghetto. His interactions with Szpilman, played by Adrien Brody, underscore the universal longing for connection and the will to survive against all odds. Mollà's performance is a testament to his range as an actor, as he navigates the complex emotional landscape of his character with a natural grace, bringing authenticity and depth to a role that, while brief, leaves a lasting impression on the audience and contributes significantly to the tapestry of powerful performances that define "The Pianist."
Paulina Gálvez as Teresa 20 / 30 años

Paulina Gálvez

Teresa 20 / 30 años
Paulina Gálvez delivered a poignant and nuanced performance as Teresa, portraying her character at both 20 and 30 years old in Roman Polanski's haunting masterpiece, "The Pianist." As the loyal and compassionate girlfriend of the protagonist, Władysław Szpilman, Gálvez's Teresa embodies the spirit of resilience and tenderness against the bleak backdrop of World War II-ravaged Warsaw. At 20, her portrayal exudes a youthful optimism and a deep affection for Szpilman, which serves as a beacon of hope amidst the growing shadows of oppression. By the time Teresa reaches 30, Gálvez skillfully conveys a woman hardened by the cruelties of war, yet her character retains an unwavering core of empathy and humanity. Her interactions with Szpilman are touching, as she represents a glimmer of normalcy and love in a world torn apart by hatred and violence. Gálvez's performance is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit, and her character's evolution throughout the film is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, contributing significantly to the emotional weight of "The Pianist."

Concha Bardem

Sra. Carmeta

Xan Cejudo

Ramón Baquero

Pedro Entrena

Paul

Víctor Guillén

Hombre batín

Joan Minguell

Igor

Xosé Manuel Olveira

Tomas

Sergi Ruiz

Quimet

Sinnia Taylor

Sra. Rosa

Jaume Valls

Andrés

Andreu Bresca

Companyia Carles Santos

Crew of The Pianist

Full backstage crew list →