Marcin Dorociński has been cast as Stanisław Wokulski in a new adaptation of Bolesław Prus's novel "Lalka." The announcement has electrified both literature fans and cinema lovers, who eagerly await the first glimpses of this ambitious project.
The production is a collaboration between Telewizja Polska and Gigant Films, aiming to ensure the highest level of production quality, both technically and artistically. While this is not the first adaptation of Prus's classic novel, the creators promise a modern approach to the timeless story, paying homage to the literary original.
Directed by Maciej Kawalski, known for his unique approach to filmmaking, viewers can expect an unconventional vision that faithfully captures the atmosphere of the era. As anticipation builds, the identity of the actress portraying Izabela Łęcka, one of the novel's central characters, remains a mystery. Speculation is rife regarding who could take on such a pivotal role, but producers are keeping tight-lipped, heightening interest in the project.
Filming is set to begin soon, although the exact date has yet to be revealed. Fans of Dorociński and literature alike are holding their breath for the first shots, which are sure to elevate the excitement surrounding this remarkable production.
From the first teasers, the project has generated immense interest. A mysterious poster featuring the silhouette of the main character sparked the imagination of internet users, leading to a flurry of speculation. Now, it is confirmed that the legendary figure of Stanisław Wokulski will be played by Dorociński, a highly regarded actor both in Poland and abroad.
Dorociński expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating, "There are characters in Polish culture that resonate and echo in each of us. Stanisław Wokulski is one of them—a dreamer and pragmatist, a romantic and a revolutionary. I am honored to follow in the footsteps of great actors like Mariusz Dmochowski and Jerzy Kamas and to confront the legend created by Prus." He added that he hopes to present Wokulski in a new light, closer to contemporary audiences. "I hope that viewers will see in him not just a 19th-century hero but someone relatable to our times. Because while times change, hearts still beat the same," he emphasized.
Radosław Drabik, the film and series producer, shares his pride in casting Dorociński. "From our first meeting with director Maciek Kawalski, we were in agreement about the choice for the lead role. I am more than certain that this will be the greatest Wokulski in the history of Polish cinema and a career-defining role for Marcin," Drabik stated.
Arkadiusz Pawlik, director of the Film and Serial Creation Agency at TVP, highlighted the significance of this new adaptation for Polish cinematography. "This is a tremendous opportunity to show that classic literature can be retold in a modern, visually appealing, and emotionally engaging way. Marcin Dorociński can attract viewers both in Poland and globally with his charisma and talent," Pawlik said.
Filming for the new "Lalka" is scheduled to commence in August 2025, with both a film and a TV series set to be produced. The series will provide a complete adaptation of Prus's novel. Behind the camera, Maciej Kawalski will direct, while Piotr Sobociński Jr. will serve as the director of photography, known for his work on productions like "Boże Ciało," "Wesele," and "Wołyń."
The project aims to create a significant cultural moment, as the adaptation will consist of a theatrical film and a series, with premieres likely to occur by late 2025 or early 2026. This dual approach is expected to resonate with both traditional film audiences and modern viewers who consume content through streaming platforms.
As the excitement builds, fans are left wondering who will take on the role of Izabela Łęcka, Wokulski's love interest, a character that has sparked debates about her moral standing and Wokulski's blindness to her flaws. Previous portrayals of Wokulski have included Mariusz Dmochowski in the 1968 film directed by Wojciech Has, and Jerzy Kamas in the 1977 TV series directed by Ryszard Ber, both of which have left a lasting impact on Polish cinema.
With Dorociński now stepping into this iconic role, the expectations are high. He is already a beloved figure in Polish cinema, having gained international acclaim for his performances in productions like "Gambit Królowej" and the latest installment of the "Mission: Impossible" series. His dedication to portraying Wokulski authentically and with depth is evident in his statements about the character's complexities.
As the production gears up, it promises to be a significant addition to the legacy of "Lalka," a novel that continues to be a staple in Polish literature and culture. With its themes of ambition, love, and societal critique, the story remains relevant, captivating new generations of readers and viewers alike.
In summary, Marcin Dorociński's casting as Stanisław Wokulski in the new adaptation of "Lalka" has stirred excitement and anticipation within the arts community. As the project unfolds under the guidance of talented filmmakers and a dedicated cast, it holds the potential to redefine a classic tale for modern audiences while honoring its rich literary heritage.
