The Punishment (1976) Osânda | Region-Free (DVD) | English Subtitles

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Title: The Punishment (1976)

Alternate Title: Osânda

Genre: Drama

Plot Synopsis:
In 1919, at the end of World War I, Romanian peasant Manolache Preda returns to his native village after serving a 10-year sentence in the salt mines for murdering a local landowner during the Great Peasant Uprising of 1907 and fighting on the front lines. He discovers that his wife has left him, selling their land to the local landowner. As he attempts to rebuild his life, Manolache faces suspicion and hostility from the villagers and authorities. His only solace comes from a budding relationship with Ruxandra, a young widow. However, when the landowner is found murdered, Manolache becomes the prime suspect, leading to a profound exploration of justice and redemption.

Cast and Crew:

• Director: Sergiu Nicolaescu
• Writers:
  • Victor Ion Popa (novel)
  • Anusavan Salamanian (screenplay)
• Producer: Romania Film
• Cast:
  • Amza Pellea as Manolache Preda
  • Ioana Pavelescu as Ruxandra
  • Ernest Maftei as Pavel
  • Gheorghe Dinică as Vasile
  • Emmerich Schäffer as Leon

IMDb Link:
Osânda (1976) 

Reviews from Letterboxd:

1. Laura – ★★★☆☆
   “Sergiu Nicolaescu is the ultimate Romanian DILF.”
2. Variable – ★½☆☆☆
   “The opening shot is that of a snail.”

Meta Description:
“The Punishment” (1976), originally titled “Osânda,” is a Romanian drama directed by Sergiu Nicolaescu. The film follows Manolache Preda, a peasant returning to his village after World War I, only to face suspicion and personal turmoil. Starring Amza Pellea and Ioana Pavelescu, it delves into themes of justice, redemption, and societal alienation.