The Pianist is a historical drama film directed by Roman Polanski, based on the memoir of Polish-Jewish pianist Władysław Szpilman. Set during World War II, the movie follows Szpilman's journey as he tries to survive the Holocaust in Nazi-occupied Warsaw. The Pianist is a poignant and moving portrayal of one man's resilience and the atrocities of war. Adrien Brody's performance in the lead role earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.