The Pianist (2002) is a critically acclaimed biographical war film directed by Roman Polanski, based on the autobiography of the Polish-Jewish pianist and composer Władysław Szpilman. The film stars Adrien Brody as Szpilman and features a haunting portrayal of his experiences during World War II in Warsaw, Poland.

The film chronicles the life of Władysław Szpilman, a talented pianist and composer whose life is upended by the outbreak of World War II. As the Nazi forces invade and occupy Warsaw, Szpilman and his family face the horrors of the Holocaust, including displacement, starvation, and the brutality of the occupation.

Szpilman is separated from his family and must rely on his wits, talent, and the help of sympathetic Poles to survive the war. Throughout his ordeal, Szpilman finds refuge in various locations, including abandoned buildings and hiding places, while his musical talents offer him moments of solace and a sense of purpose. The film’s climax depicts Szpilman’s near starvation and ultimate rescue by a German officer, who is moved by Szpilman’s playing.