A new Polish drama, 'Proud', is garnering attention for its candid portrayal of a high-flying model's unexpected journey into fatherhood. The series centres on Filip Raczyński (Ignacy Liss), a man in his late twenties whose life revolves around modelling assignments, late-night clubbing, and a generally hedonistic lifestyle. His routine of vodka for breakfast and illicit substances in Ubers sets the stage for a dramatic shift when he is suddenly thrust into the role of a guardian.
Filip's carefree existence is upended after his sister, Anka, a single mother, tragically dies, leaving her one-year-old daughter, Tosia, in his care. The initial episodes meticulously establish Filip's character – charmingly roguish but perpetually unreliable, often leaving his agent's assistant, Olek, to cover for his antics, including looking after a dog he 'rescued' from a drug dealer. His chaotic home life, shared with Anka and Tosia, hints at the underlying tension before the central premise fully unfolds.
The core of 'Proud' delves into the significant cultural and legal obstacles Filip faces as a gay man attempting to adopt a child in Poland. While audiences in the UK might view the concept of a gay man adopting with relative ease, the series underscores that in Poland, this remains a deeply controversial and legally complex issue. A solicitor advises Filip that to avoid Tosia being removed from his care – a prospect he deeply fears, stemming from his own difficult upbringing in foster care – he would need to 'stop being gay for some time'.
Despite the weighty subject matter, 'Proud', conceived and directed by Karol Klementewicz and co-written with Monika Pęcikiewicz, is not without its lighter moments. The show intersperses its narrative with sly black humour and outright slapstick, such as Filip's nude appearance at a modelling audition or a chaotic segment on a Polish morning show. These moments provide a contrast to the overarching themes of pain, shame, and a profound yearning for connection.
The drama also tenderly sketches Filip's 'chosen family', including the loyal Olek and makeup artist Kiki (Maria Sobocińska), who, despite their own imperfections, offer him unwavering support. The ensemble cast delivers convincing performances, with particular praise for the scenes involving Tosia, portrayed by Alicja Lewczuk, which are described as remarkably believable. Klementewicz elevates the series' visual style, employing cinematic techniques such as close-ups and resonant silences, enhancing the emotional depth of the storytelling.
While the series' UK streaming availability is not yet confirmed, its themes resonate globally, shedding light on the complexities of family, identity, and societal acceptance. Its potential to spark conversations around LGBTQ+ rights and adoption challenges makes it a compelling watch for audiences interested in contemporary European drama.