In a recent episode of the program "Rezerwacja," hosted by Katarzyna Janowska, actors Korek Bojanowski and Tamara Arciuch discussed their film "Utrata równowagi," which tackles the serious issue of violence within art schools. The film aims to shine a light on the psychological challenges faced by students in these artistic environments, a theme that Arciuch knows all too well from her own experiences.
During the interview aired on May 9, 2025, Arciuch opened up about her time at the State Higher School of Theatre in Kraków, where she faced significant psychological abuse. "During my first year of theater school, I heard that no one would coddle us in this profession, so the sooner we got a kick in the butt, the better," she recalled. This harsh reality was compounded by verbal abuse, with classmates often subjected to ridicule and intimidation.
Arciuch shared a particularly painful memory involving one of her professors, who tormented her to the point where she contemplated quitting her studies altogether. "She wouldn’t even let me finish a sentence. She would immediately say, 'Wrong! Try again!' and had classmates push me during exercises to 'open me up.' It brought me to tears," Arciuch recounted. Such treatment created an atmosphere of fear and self-doubt, leading her to question her abilities as an actress.
Despite these challenges, not all her instructors were unsupportive. Arciuch mentioned a diction professor, Marta Jurasz, who provided crucial support during her difficult times. "I convinced myself that since I couldn’t handle the pressure, I wasn’t cut out for this profession," she explained. Jurasz’s encouragement helped her regain her confidence and learn the importance of setting boundaries. "I vowed never to let anyone treat me like that again, and I haven’t faced similar situations since," she concluded.
Alongside the discussion of their film, Janowska also highlighted the upcoming release of Karolina Czarnecka’s new album titled "Matka." Czarnecka’s work is described as deeply personal, featuring insightful observations on human life, maturation, addictions, and motherhood. The album promises to resonate with listeners, reflecting the complexities of personal experiences.
As the conversation unfolded, it became clear that both Arciuch and Bojanowski are committed to addressing the uncomfortable realities faced by students in the arts. Their film "Utrata równowagi" serves as a platform for dialogue about the often-hidden struggles of those pursuing creative careers.
In a world where mental health issues are increasingly acknowledged, the insights shared by Arciuch are particularly relevant. The film not only aims to entertain but also to provoke thought and discussion about the nature of violence and its impact on young artists. By sharing her story, Arciuch hopes to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.
As the arts community continues to evolve, initiatives like "Utrata równowagi" are vital in fostering a safer and more supportive environment for aspiring artists. The film is set to premiere soon, and its creators are hopeful that it will spark necessary conversations about the treatment of students in artistic education.
In addition to their film project, Bojanowski and Arciuch are also exploring other creative avenues. The episode of "Rezerwacja" not only showcased their current work but also highlighted the importance of artistic expression in addressing societal issues.
As viewers await the release of "Utrata równowagi," it is clear that the film will leave a lasting impact on audiences, encouraging them to reflect on the often-unseen struggles within the creative community. With artists like Arciuch bravely sharing their experiences, there is hope for a future where psychological violence in educational settings is acknowledged and addressed.
With the entertainment industry facing scrutiny over mental health and well-being, Arciuch’s story serves as a poignant reminder that the path to artistic success is often fraught with challenges. The film aims to not only entertain but also educate and inform, making it a significant addition to the ongoing conversation about mental health in the arts.
As the episode of "Rezerwacja" concluded, viewers were left not only with a greater understanding of the film's themes but also with a sense of solidarity with those who have faced similar adversities. The conversation between Janowska, Bojanowski, and Arciuch is a powerful testament to the importance of sharing stories and supporting one another in the pursuit of artistic dreams.
Ultimately, "Utrata równowagi" is more than just a film; it is a call to action for the arts community to foster an environment where all students can thrive without fear of violence or harassment. As the premiere date approaches, anticipation builds for a film that promises to be both impactful and enlightening.
