Without Anesthesia (Bez znieczulenia) is a 1978 Polish drama film directed by Andrzej Wajda. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Andrzej Kijowski and stars Zbigniew Zapasiewicz as the protagonist, a famous journalist named Jacek.
Jacek is highly respected in his profession, but his personal life is falling apart. He is married to a younger woman, Ewa (Christine Pascal), who is having an affair with a young artist named Roman. Jacek is at a loss as to how to deal with the situation and Ewa offers no explanations.
Jacek participates in a television show discussing a world conference and impresses the audience with his political knowledge and debating skills. However, his enemies take advantage of his absence to revoke his privileges and discredit him. A devastated Jacek returns home to find out that Ewa wants a divorce and has moved out with their two daughters.
Jacek turns to alcohol, drinking heavily with students who were supposed to attend his cancelled seminar. He becomes silent and withdrawn, incapable of dealing with his personal or professional problems. He tries to confront Roman about his affair with Ewa, but ends up getting beaten up.
The film explores themes of power, betrayal, and masculinity. Jacek is portrayed as a proud and accomplished man who is forced to confront his own powerlessness in the face of personal and societal difficulties. The film ends on a bleak note, with Jacek alone and uncertain of his future.
Overall, Without Anesthesia is a powerful and emotionally intense film that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the frailties of the human spirit.