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Adaptations of Bolesław Prus’s Lalka in 2026

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2026-10-24 10:34 UTC → 2026-10-24 16:03 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In late 2026, several adaptations of Bolesław Prus’s classic novel ‘Lalka’ were released in Poland. TVP 1 began broadcasting the 1977 television series in early September, coinciding with two major new projects. A Netflix series directed by Paweł Maślona, described as being ‘inspired by the novel’ rather than a strict adaptation, premiered on September 16. This six-episode reinterpretation blends period drama with crime and grotesque realism, starring Tomasz Schuchardt and Sandra Drzymalska. The production sparked intense national debate regarding its modern approach, character portrayals, and use of profanity, leading to a cultural moment described as a ‘Polish Barbenheimer’ effect. In response to the controversy, actress Magdalena Cielecka and Sandra Drzymalska defended the creative choices, with Drzymalska noting the goal was to explore modern relationships and social class. The series also drew international attention, with ‘The New York Times’ calling it a ‘grand costume spectacle’. On September 28, a large-scale cinematic adaptation directed by Maciej Kawalski premiered in Polish cinemas. Produced by Gigant Films, this version aims for a faithful rendition of the story, starring Marcin Dorociński, Kamila Urzędowska, and Marek Kondrat. While film critic Tomasz Raczek criticized Urzędowska’s portrayal of Izabela Łęcka as a ‘stone dragging the film down’, the production has seen massive commercial success, breaking domestic box office records with over 620,000 viewers in its first five days. The film’s popularity even prompted a special edition product launch by the confectionery brand Śliwka Nałęczowska. The cultural momentum continued into mid-October with the announcement of a new ballet adaptation at the Opera na Zamku in Szczecin, scheduled to premiere on October 17. Following its massive success, the Kawalski film has now attracted over two million viewers.

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