Vabank or Go for Broke

Vabank or Go for Broke is a Polish comedy film directed by Juliusz Machulski and released in 1981. Set in the 1930s, the movie tells the story of two amateur bank robbers who decide to pull off the heist of a lifetime in a high-security gambling club. The film features an all-star cast including Jan Machulski, Leonard Pietraszak, Witold Pyrkosz, and Olga Sawicka.

The movie starts with Kwinto, a crook who has recently been released from prison, being approached by a fellow criminal named Kramer. Kramer proposes that they rob a casino owned by a wealthy and corrupt businessman named Zawada. Kwinto is initially hesitant, but he eventually agrees to the plan after learning that his former girlfriend is now a dealer at the casino.

Kramer recruits two more accomplices for the heist: the bumbling Krysztof and the suave and sophisticated Safecracker. The four men begin to plan their robbery, which involves stealing a large sum of money from Zawada's safe while he is preoccupied with a high-stakes card game. Despite the danger involved in the heist, the robbers are determined to go for broke and make a fortune.

As they prepare for the robbery, the four men become embroiled in a series of misadventures and close calls. They must contend with a rival gang of criminals who also want to rob the casino, as well as with the suspicious behavior of Zawada's henchmen. In addition, they have to navigate the complicated personal relationships between themselves, including Kwinto's lingering feelings for his former girlfriend and Safecracker's romantic interest in a mysterious woman who may be involved in the heist.

The heist itself is a tense and thrilling sequence that involves sneaking past security guards, cracking the safe's combination, and making a daring escape with the stolen money. However, the robbers soon realize that they have made a major mistake: they have stolen marked bills that are easily traceable by the police. With the authorities hot on their heels, the crooks must evade capture and find a way to launder their stolen money without getting caught.

Throughout the film, Machulski and Pietraszak deliver standout performances as Kwinto and Safecracker, respectively. Kwinto is a rough-around-the-edges criminal with a heart of gold, while Safecracker is a debonair and dashing thief with a flair for the dramatic. Their banter and chemistry make for some of the movie's funniest and most engaging scenes.

Overall, Vabank or Go for Broke is a lighthearted and entertaining film that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. It's a classic caper movie that combines thrilling heist sequences, colorful characters, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you're a fan of crime movies or just looking for a fun and engaging cinematic experience, this Polish gem is not to be missed.