The Garden of Earthly Delights (1981 film)

The Garden of Earthly Delights is a Polish drama film directed by Lech Majewski, released in 1981. Inspired by the famous triptych of the same name by Hieronymus Bosch, the film explores themes of mortality, love, and art.

The narrative centers around an art conservator named Adam, who is tasked with restoring a damaged painting, strongly implied to be a depiction or derivative of Bosch's masterpiece. As Adam works, he becomes increasingly consumed by the imagery and symbolism within the painting. The film interweaves Adam's experiences with the visual elements of Bosch's art, creating a surreal and symbolic meditation on human existence.

While not a direct adaptation of Bosch's painting in a literal sense, the film uses the artwork as a springboard to examine contemporary anxieties and relationships. The film is notable for its striking visuals and dreamlike atmosphere, reflecting the unsettling and enigmatic qualities of Bosch's original vision. It is considered a significant work in Majewski's filmography and a compelling example of how classic art can be reinterpreted and explored through cinema.