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Drama thriller

Operation Hyacinth (2021): Cast & Ratings

Operation Hyacinth (2021) movie poster

Operation Hyacinth is a 2021 drama thriller directed by Piotr Domalewski, starring Tomasz Zietek as Robert, Hubert Milkowski and Sebastian Stankiewicz. It runs 1 hour 46 minutes. Critics gave it 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 6.8/10.

IMDb rating
6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes
100%
Echo Score
83
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Operation Hyacinth (2021) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 46m (106 min)
Director
Piotr Domalewski
Genres
Drama , Thriller , Crime
Original language
Polish
Studio
Netflix
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Operation Hyacinth About?

The premise of Operation Hyacinth without spoilers.

In 1980s Poland, Detective Robert pursues a ruthless serial killer who preys on gay men. The investigation leads him into a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, forcing him to form an uneasy alliance with Arek, a mysterious informant. As Robert and Arek delve deeper, they uncover unsettling secrets that jeopardize their lives and careers, challenging their own beliefs and forcing them to confront the dark underbelly of their society.

Operation Hyacinth Themes & Keywords

· 50 tags
  • homophobia
  • police
  • gay kiss
  • gay sex
  • sexual tension
  • gay
  • arrested for homosexuality
  • communist
  • bare chested male
  • male underwear
  • male male kiss
  • male nudity
+38 more
  • gay policeman
  • warsaw poland
  • poland
  • homosexuality
  • 1980s
  • bisexual male
  • investigation
  • year 1985
  • mustache
  • male rear nudity
  • sex scene
  • gay attraction
  • gay slur
  • extreme violence
  • communist poland
  • sexual attraction
  • gay interest
  • first gay sexual experience
  • unexpected kiss
  • homosexual
  • man dances with a man
  • gay cruising
  • cigarette smoking
  • male prostitution
  • alcohol
  • mother son relationship
  • bisexual man
  • work
  • job
  • criminal
  • briefs
  • undershirt
  • peace symbol
  • hospital room
  • videotape
  • female nudity
  • female topless nudity
  • family relationships
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Cast & crew

Operation Hyacinth Cast & Characters

Tomasz Zietek leads the cast as Robert, with Hubert Milkowski as Arek and Sebastian Stankiewicz as Maciek. Directed by Piotr Domalewski; 10 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Operation Hyacinth

· 6 more
Ratings

Operation Hyacinth Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave Operation Hyacinth 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, and IMDb users rate it 6.8/10. Our Echo Score gives it 83/100, strongest in art & craft (85) and weakest in story & flow (70).

83 /100

Operation Hyacinth Echo Score Breakdown

Operation Hyacinth delivers a compelling thriller grounded in historical oppression, with particular strength in its visual authenticity and thematic focus. Critics and audiences alike commend the film's atmospheric direction, polished production design, and nuanced performances that convey the period's tension. While the narrative occasionally leans on genre conventions and some viewers note uneven pacing, the overall impact remains resonant and thought‑provoking. The consensus positions the film as a noteworthy entry that balances craft and message effectively.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 85

    In terms of art and craft, the film excels with its meticulously rendered period details and strong visual composition. Reviewers highlight the bleak Warsaw winter cinematography, precise production design, and effective direction that sustains tension throughout. Minor criticisms note occasional pacing issues, but the overall execution of editing and visual style is regarded as polished and immersive, reinforcing the film’s atmospheric goals.

  • Character & Emotion 80

    When evaluating character and emotion, performances are repeatedly praised for depth and nuance. Tomasz Ziętek’s portrayal is described as outstanding, and supporting actors convey the conflict and moral ambiguity central to the story. Some viewers mention limited dialogue in certain scenes, yet the overall emotional resonance and chemistry among the cast are considered strong, contributing to audience engagement with the protagonists’ journeys.

  • Story & Flow 70

    The narrative structure receives mixed feedback, balancing a gripping mystery with moments of formulaic storytelling. Critics commend the smart script and sustained suspense, while a few users point to confusing editing choices and an unresolved ending. Originality in exploring Poland’s anti‑LGBTQ+ campaign is noted positively, but occasional pacing lulls and lack of exposition lower the overall coherence of the plot.

  • Sensory Experience 85

    Sensory experience stands out through a carefully curated soundtrack and sound design that reflect the era’s ambience. Reviewers appreciate the period‑appropriate music in bars and formal settings, as well as the consistent visual palette that reinforces the film’s gritty tone. The soundscape and visual cohesion work together to immerse viewers, with few criticisms noted regarding sensory elements.

  • Rewatch Factor 80

    Rewatch factor is high, with several viewers indicating multiple viewings to appreciate the film’s layers and historical context. The narrative’s depth, combined with strong performances and atmospheric design, encourages repeat engagement. While some note narrative ambiguity that may affect immediate satisfaction, the overall lasting appeal and educational value drive a solid desire for subsequent viewings.

Videos

Operation Hyacinth Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Operation Hyacinth.

Operation Hyacinth | Official Trailer | Netflix
Details

Operation Hyacinth Also Known As

18 alternative titles, including “风信子之恋” and “ปฏิบัติการไฮยาซินธ์”.

Also known as
  • 风信子之恋
  • ปฏิบัติการไฮยาซินธ์
  • 작전명 히아신스
  • Acción Jacinto
  • Operation Hiacynt
  • Entre Frestas
  • Opération Hyacinthe
  • Sümbül Operasyonu
  • Operation Hyakinthos
  • Operación Jacinto
  • 風信子行動
  • Операція «Гіацинт»
+6 more
  • ‏מבצע יקינתון
  • Гиацинт
  • Operaţiunea Hyacinth
  • A lengyel Hüakinthosz
  • Υάκινθος
  • Operacija Hyacinth

Seen Operation Hyacinth?

FAQ

Operation Hyacinth FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date

Runtime, release date, director, cast, ratings, post-credit scenes and language of Operation Hyacinth, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Operation Hyacinth?

Operation Hyacinth runs 1 hour 46 minutes (106 minutes).

When was Operation Hyacinth released?

Operation Hyacinth was released on October 13, 2021.

Who directed Operation Hyacinth?

Operation Hyacinth was directed by Piotr Domalewski.

More films by Piotr Domalewski

Who is in the cast of Operation Hyacinth?

Operation Hyacinth stars Tomasz Zietek as Robert, Hubert Milkowski as Arek and Sebastian Stankiewicz as Maciek, among 10 credited actors.

How is Operation Hyacinth rated?

Operation Hyacinth has 6.8/10 on IMDb, 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 69% on TMDB and 3.8/5 on Letterboxd.

Does Operation Hyacinth have a post-credit scene?

No. Operation Hyacinth has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Operation Hyacinth in?

The original language of Operation Hyacinth is Polish.

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