HBO Max series “Proud,” about Filip, a young gay man who tends to avoid any responsibilities until tragedy strikes and has to take care of his late sister’s baby, could spark a new debate in conservative Poland.
“This is partly our mission. There hasn’t been a show like this before, and this subject continues to polarize our society. I think ‘Proud’ has a chance to show both sides and prove that you can – and you should – talk to each other,” actor Ignacy Liss tells Variety ahead of the premiere of the show at Series Mania, where it plays in main competition. Variety has also been able to access some first-look photos.
“That’s what art and entertainment are all about: raising awareness of certain issues. We’re not hitting people over the head with a message. We wanted to tell a believable story that could really take place in Warsaw, and show all the difficulties a young gay man would face while trying to adopt a child. This isn’t about same-sex couples’ rights – this topic doesn’t even exist in Poland – but we do show that some people are bothered by Filip’s sexual orientation. We know this problem exists.”
Creator Karol Klementewicz adds: We know where we live and we know how minorities are treated here. But when I was writing, I tried to understand each side.”
“In Poland, we just lack dialogue. No one will change their opinion after watching the show, because it’s an ongoing process, but perhaps someone will see this man as more than just his sexuality. Maybe they will see him as a human being.”
He says: “We can’t completely avoid politics, given what’s happening in our country. It affects our lives, whether we like it or not. There are many problems connected to homophobia, which is so cruel and really needs to stop. It affects Filip, too.”
Klementewicz, who also directs, co-wrote “Proud” – which debuts exclusive first-look stills – with Monika Pęcikiewicz. It’s produced by TVN Warner Bros. Discovery and Magnolia Films. He came up with the story after experiencing a change within his own family.
“The beginning of it all was very personal and very ordinary: my brother had a son. He used to be so carefree and suddenly, this small creature turned his life upside down. It was fascinating to see how quickly you grow into a certain role, how you become a parent. You just have to face it.”
His protagonist isn’t exactly ready for parenthood, though. Filip is a party animal, prone to long nights and casual hookups. But he also doesn’t have a choice.
‘Proud’
TVN WBD_Agnieszka Jurek-Opalińska
“At first, it was a challenge to find him. Everyone had a ‘party period,’ but this is someone who evidently got lost along the way. Still, and that’s the most important thing, he’s also capable of love and empathy,” explains Liss.
“He grew up as an orphan and he doesn’t want this child to go through the same thing. When I finally got to know him, I realized we’re actually not that different. For me, that’s the universal message of this series. Everyone has the potential to do the right thing, and I mean everyone. You just need to find your way.”
Everyone also has the potential to change and grow, agrees Klementewicz.
“It’s not like he makes this decision very quickly or becomes a capable parent overnight. You can’t just stop that fast train called youth, leave at the station called ‘responsibility’ and say: ‘I’m ready.’ Also, it’s not about changing who you are, but becoming a better version of yourself. Sometimes, you just need a strong push or people around you who wish you well to do that.”
Luckily, Filip isn’t alone – he’s surrounded by his chosen family and friends who are by his side as he says goodbye to his sister.
“I call it a ‘perfect story about imperfect people’,” laughs Liss.
“All of them experienced rejection. They are a group of socially excluded people who have created a great family together. They really support and love each other.”
The cast includes Maria Sobocińska, Kamil Studnicki, Paweł Tomaszewski, Maja Ostaszewska, Alicja Lewczuk and Mateusz Więcławek. Another season isn’t ruled out.
“HBO was really brave to find a place for a show like ours, and it would be interesting to see what Filip does next with his life. When I was watching the show after it was finished, I thought: These are cool people. It would be nice to spend more time with them,” says Klementewicz, who sees “Proud” as a “family story.”
“It’s about a chosen family that forms when it’s needed. I think a person is always lonely in life, but it’s great to have someone who can help. Friends aren’t always there, and we definitely show that, but you can count on them – even to tell you the bitter truth. There’s a bit of tough love here,” he notes.
“They create a world that doesn’t judge or exclude, even though these people do lose their patience at times. But, and it’s such a cliché, this show is really all about love. It turns out that it’s not just children who need adults; adults need children too. This kid saves him. Love is the most important thing, no matter how cheesy that sounds.”
‘Proud’
TVN WBD_Agnieszka Jurek-Opalińska
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