Kamila Urzędowska Cast As Izabela Łęcka In New Lalka Adaptation

In a highly anticipated adaptation of Bolesław Prus's classic novel "Lalka," Kamila Urzędowska has been confirmed to take on the iconic role of Izabela Łęcka. Directed by Maciej Kawalski, this new version will also feature Marcin Dorociński as her counterpart, Stanisław Wokulski. The announcement has generated significant excitement among fans of Polish literature and cinema alike.

Producer Radosław Drabik expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I imagined Kamila Urzędowska as the ideal candidate for the role of Izabela almost a year ago." He emphasized the careful consideration that went into the casting process, acknowledging the pressure and expectations surrounding the project. "Months went by, and we survived the buzz and speculation that stirred the hearts of book lovers, film enthusiasts, and the industry itself. It’s done, and I am convinced it’s the best decision!" he added in an interview with Onet.

Urzędowska, who gained popularity for her portrayal of Jagna in the 2023 adaptation of "Chłopi," expressed her excitement about stepping into the shoes of such a complex character. "With great joy, I prepare for the role of Izabela Łęcka—a character that is exceptional, multifaceted, and close to the hearts of many lovers of Polish literature. This is not only a professional challenge for me but also a fascinating journey into human emotions, dreams, and dilemmas that Bolesław Prus beautifully portrayed in 'Lalka.' Working on this role is an opportunity to pay homage to the classic while infusing Izabela with a contemporary sensitivity that allows us all to look at her story anew," she shared.

Born on January 7, 1994, in Nysa, Urzędowska graduated from PWST in Wrocław in 2020. Before her breakout role in "Chłopi," she appeared in smaller roles in series including "Żmijowisko" and "M jak miłość." Her performance in "Chłopi" earned her the Crystal Star award at the Polish Feature Film Festival in Gdynia and nominations for the Eagles in the Best Actress and Discovery of the Year categories.

Urzędowska's upbringing in a small town in the Opole region has shaped her understanding of rural life, a theme central to both "Chłopi" and "Lalka." "I understand this world. I know it and remember it from my childhood. I grew up in a small town, and my grandparents ran a farm. Much has changed since the late 19th century, but the atmosphere of the Polish countryside remains the same," she reflected in an interview.

Marcin Dorociński, who will portray Wokulski, also shared his thoughts on the role. "In Polish culture, there are characters that live and resonate in each of us. Stanisław Wokulski is one of them—a man full of contradictions, a dreamer and pragmatist, a romantic and revolutionary. I am honored to follow in the footsteps of great actors like Mariusz Dmochowski and Jerzy Kamas and face the legend created by Prus, showing it in a new light through my interpretation. I hope viewers will see in Wokulski not just a 19th-century hero but someone relatable to our times. Although the times change, the hearts still beat the same," Dorociński stated.

The new adaptation of "Lalka" promises to be a modern retelling of the classic, with Arkadiusz Pawlik, director of the Polish Film and Serial Creation Agency, declaring that it will demonstrate that "classical literature can be told anew in a modern, visually attractive, and emotionally engaging way." He expressed confidence that Dorociński's portrayal of Wokulski will be unforgettable.

Filming for "Lalka" is set to begin in August 2025, with both a film and a series being produced. The series will serve as a full version of the production, allowing for a deeper exploration of the characters and themes. The cinematography will be handled by Piotr Sobociński Jr., known for his work on acclaimed films such as "Boże Ciało" and "Wesele." The collaboration between Telewizja Polska and Gigant Films aims to bring this timeless story to a new generation.

As excitement builds for the premiere scheduled for 2026, audiences are eager to see how Urzędowska and Dorociński will breathe new life into their characters and whether Urzędowska can join the ranks of previous actresses who have portrayed Izabela Łęcka, such as Beata Tyszkiewicz and Małgorzata Braunek, both of whom left a significant mark on Polish cinema with their performances.

In a world where classic literature often faces the challenge of adaptation, the upcoming "Lalka" seeks to strike a balance between honoring the original text and making it accessible and relevant to contemporary audiences. With a talented cast and a dedicated production team, this adaptation is poised to captivate both new viewers and long-time fans of Prus's work.