Maria Stachurska’s The Midwife opens with a chilling image: Stanislawa Leszczynska, a woman of quiet strength, standing amidst the barbed wire of Auschwitz-Birkenau, her hands cradling a newborn life into the world. This stark contrast between the brutality of the concentration camp and the miracle of birth sets the tone for a documentary that is as harrowing as it is inspiring.

Stachurska’s film is a tribute to an extraordinary woman who, under the most inhuman conditions, delivered 3000 babies without losing a single child. The documentary weaves together archival footage, interviews, and narration by Danuta Stenka and Hanna Polk to explore Stanislawa’s story. The craftsmanship here is evident in the way Stachurska juxtaposes the historical context of World War II with Stanislawa’s personal journey, creating a narrative that is both intimate and epic.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to humanize history. Through the narration and the careful selection of archival material, we see not just a midwife, but a mother, a survivor, and a symbol of resilience. The sound design is particularly effective, using silence and ambient noise to underscore the tension and emotion of each scene. The performances by Stenka and Polk are nuanced, their voices lending gravity and warmth to Stanislawa’s story.

However, The Midwife falters in its pacing. At times, the documentary feels more like a historical account than a cinematic experience, with lengthy stretches of narration that slow the momentum. The film also struggles to balance its dual focus on Stanislawa’s personal strength and the broader historical context, occasionally losing sight of the individual amidst the larger narrative.

Yet, despite these flaws, The Midwife is a powerful testament to the indomitable human spirit. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, acts of compassion and courage can illuminate the path forward. The film’s originality lies in its focus on an often-overlooked aspect of wartime history—the role of women like Stanislawa who performed miracles amidst the chaos.

In the end, The Midwife is a moving exploration of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of life.

Tags: Danuta Stenka, Hanna Polk, Maria Stachurska, The Midwife