The Warsaw Orphan

As the final days of the Warsaw Uprising unfold in late summer 1944, Emilia grieves Uncle Piotr’s death alongside Truda and Mateusz, realizing that his escape plan died with him and that they remain trapped in the besieged city. Food shortages worsen, with the Polish Home Army (AK) distributing meager portions of barley for soup to starving civilians. Despite the desperation surrounding her, Emilia finds purpose by creating a mural on her bedroom wall, documenting the people and buildings of Warsaw.

AK soldiers arrive to announce the city’s capitulation and explain the terms for civilian evacuation. Sara visits to bid farewell, explaining that she must remain with her patients at the hospital rather than evacuate. The next morning, German loudspeakers announce evacuation throughout the city. Before leaving, Emilia adds final figures to her mural: herself and Roman wearing his Scout uniform, preserving their love even as Warsaw crumbles around them.

Following the Uprising’s surrender in October 1944, Roman and other fighters march as prisoners of war through Warsaw’s ruins. The once-familiar city lies in complete destruction. During the march, Roman becomes protective of 15-year-old Sword, whose real name is Kacper. He lied about his age to join the uprising. Kacper now struggles with a severely injured foot that Roman suspects will eventually have to be amputated.