Proud Review: A Gorgeous Tale of a Hard-Partying Model Turned Dad
The Lead
Filip Raczyński (Ignacy Liss) is living his best life in his late 20s, enjoying his modeling career and partying hard. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when his sister Anka dies, leaving him to care for her one-year-old daughter, Tosia.
The Event Details
The series, conceived and directed by Karol Klementewicz and co-written with Monika Pęcikiewicz, follows Filip's journey as he navigates his new role as a single parent. The show is set in Poland, where the concept of a gay man adopting a child is culturally controversial and legally challenging.
The Cultural Context
In Poland, the idea of a gay man adopting a child is met with resistance, as seen when a solicitor advises Filip to "stop being gay for some time" to avoid losing custody of Tosia. This highlights the difficulties faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Poland.
The Impact Analysis
The show tackles themes of pain, shame, and connection in a grittier and humorous way. Filip's character is complex, and his relationships with his chosen family, including his agent's assistant Olek and makeup artist Kiki, are tenderly sketched.
The Prediction
As the series progresses, viewers are drawn into Filip's world and prepared to forgive his mistakes. With its cinematic audiovisual palette and convincing ensemble cast, 'Proud' is a compelling watch. The show is now available on HBO Max.