Operation Hyacinth is a 2018 Polish drama film directed by Władysław Pasikowski. The story is based on true events and revolves around the murder of a gay man in the late 1980s in Poland. The victim, Jacek Włodarski, was brutally beaten and left to die in a park in Warsaw, but the police investigation fails to produce any satisfactory results.
The film follows Captain Piotr Setka (Marcin Dorociński), a police officer who is determined to uncover the truth behind the murder of Włodarski. Setka is initially assigned to the case because of his experience with investigating crimes in the gay community, but his superior officers view the case as low priority and are more concerned with maintaining order in the country during a time of political unrest.
Setka becomes increasingly frustrated with the investigation and decides to take matters into his own hands. He begins to work with a group of activists from the gay community, who provide him with valuable information and insight into the victim's life. As Setka delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit within the police department and realizes that the murder may be connected to a larger conspiracy.
The film is a powerful exploration of the social and political climate in Poland during the 1980s, as well as a commentary on the discrimination and violence faced by the LGBTQ+ community in the country at that time. It is a gripping thriller that offers a nuanced and compassionate portrayal of its characters, and is a must-see for anyone interested in Polish history and LGBTQ+ rights.
