TVN24: Service Unavailable | We’ll Be Right Back
A new Polish television series, Zaraz wracam
(roughly translated as I’ll Be Right Back
), is capturing attention with its depiction of life in a rural Polish community and the complex political dynamics surrounding a small-town administration’s ambition to achieve city status. The series, which premiered on , on TVP1, is set in the fictional village of Polskie Pole.
The show centers on Eligiusz Czapla, the village’s wójt
(mayor), played by Mariusz Kiljan, and his efforts to secure the necessary approvals for Polskie Pole to be officially recognized as a city. This pursuit is complicated by both a serious, undisclosed illness and political opposition, notably from Józef Sałaciński, a former mayor portrayed by Marcin Kwaśny. The rivalry between Czapla and Sałaciński forms a key narrative thread, highlighting the often-contentious nature of local Polish politics.
Adding another layer to the storyline is the arrival of Maria Zając, a recent economics graduate played by Dominika Lignicka, who takes on the role of the village’s new treasurer. Her integration into the community is not without its challenges, as she must navigate the intricacies of her new position while similarly confronting a family history marked by rejection. This personal dimension adds a human element to the broader political and administrative themes of the series.
The series is directed by Makary Janowski, alongside Adam Molak, Michał Węgrzyn, Michał Michałowski, and Katarzyna Boryczka. The script is a collaborative effort from a team of writers including Łukasz Krzemiński, Dawid Wiktorowski, Brunon Hawryluk, Klaudia Żark-Langda, Paweł Trześniowski, and Radosław Figura. The production team also includes Paweł Figurski and Marcin Tarapacz as cinematographers, Maciej Szewiernowski as the production designer, and a team of editors led by Tomasz Widarski.
While seemingly focused on the minutiae of local government, Zaraz wracam
taps into broader themes relevant to contemporary Poland. The desire for city status, for example, is often linked to increased funding opportunities and a perceived elevation in prestige – factors that resonate strongly in a country undergoing significant regional development. The series’ focus on the challenges faced by rural communities also reflects ongoing demographic shifts and economic disparities within Poland.
The show’s setting in a fictional village allows for a degree of creative license, but the underlying issues it explores – political maneuvering, bureaucratic hurdles, and personal relationships – are deeply rooted in the realities of Polish life. The competition for resources and influence between different political factions is a common feature of Polish politics at all levels, from national government to local councils.
The series’ popularity suggests a public appetite for stories that reflect the everyday experiences of ordinary Poles. While large-scale geopolitical events often dominate international headlines, the lives of those living in smaller communities are equally important. Zaraz wracam
offers a glimpse into this world, providing a nuanced and often humorous portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of rural Polish life.
The series currently consists of 79 episodes across two series, with new episodes continuing to air on TVP1. The musical theme for the series is provided by Andrzej Piaseczny, with his song Zaraz wracam
. The show is produced by TVP, Poland’s public broadcaster, and is filmed in a 16:9 4K format with stereo sound.
The success of Zaraz wracam
also highlights the growing importance of Polish television drama. In recent years, Polish productions have gained international recognition for their quality and originality, attracting a wider audience both within Poland and abroad. The series’ focus on relatable characters and compelling storylines is likely to contribute to its continued success.
The series’ exploration of the complexities of local governance and the personal lives of those involved offers a unique perspective on contemporary Poland. It’s a story about ambition, rivalry, and the enduring power of community, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing nation. The show’s ability to balance these elements effectively is a key reason for its appeal to viewers.