The Polka King

The Polka King

Year: 2018

Runtime: 95 min

Language: English

Director: Maya Forbes

BiographyDramaComedy

This outrageous true story follows Polish émigré Jan Lewan, whose boundless energy and shrewdness lead him from owning a small shop to becoming the self-proclaimed "King of Pennsylvania Polka" in the early 1990s. Driven by the American Dream, Lewan’s charismatic charm captivates his wife, Marla, and his loyal sidekick, Mickey. However, his relentless pursuit comes at a significant cost, ultimately leaving them both reeling from unexpected consequences.

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Timeline & Setting – The Polka King (2018)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Polka King (2018). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The narrative unfolds in a contemporary setting that highlights the challenges of entrepreneurship, financial ethics, and personal aspirations. It reflects a period where the American dream is pursued but can quickly spiral into chaos if driven by desperation and deceit. The film also touches on themes of redemption and moral reckoning prevalent in today's society.

Location

Pennsylvania, Rome

Pennsylvania serves as a vibrant backdrop for Jan's polka band, where music and community intertwine. It's known for its rich cultural heritage, often celebrating its diverse immigrant population through lively festivities. In contrast, Rome represents a grand opportunity for Jan, as he seeks to create unforgettable experiences, including a private audience with the Pope, linking the beauty of polka to the grandeur of the eternal city.

🌆 Pennsylvania 🌍 Rome

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:24

Main Characters – The Polka King (2018)

Meet the key characters of The Polka King (2018), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Jan Lewan

As the charismatic leader of the polka band, Jan embodies both ambition and charm. Initially driven by his desire for success, his actions lead to moral and legal dilemmas that force him to confront the consequences of his decisions. Despite his flaws, there's an underlying resilience and a desire to make things right.

👨‍🎤 Leader 🎩 Charismatic 💼 Entrepreneur

Mickey Pizzazz

Mickey is a clarinetist and a friend to Jan, embodying the challenges of artistic expression amidst societal expectations. He grapples with self-doubt but ultimately finds inspiration in Jan’s relentless creativity. His character arc reveals a transformative journey as he embraces a bold new identity for himself.

🎷 Musician 🌟 Inspired 🎭 Performer

Marla Lewan

Jan’s supportive wife, Marla, is portrayed as both strong and ambitious. She pursues her own dreams within the shadow of Jan’s burgeoning career, which reflects the balance of partnership and individuality. Her journey through a beauty pageant illustrates her resilience in the face of adversity and the quest for personal fulfillment.

👩‍🎤 Supportive 👑 Ambitious 💃 Aspiring

Ron Edwards

Ron serves as the investigator who exposes Jan's illegal investment scheme. His character represents authority and the moral implications of financial practices. His intervention propels the narrative, symbolizing the law's confrontation with personal ambition and the pursuit of dreams.

👮‍♂️ Investigator ⚖️ Authority 🕵️‍♂️ Watchful

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:24

Major Themes – The Polka King (2018)

Explore the central themes of The Polka King (2018), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎶 Music & Identity

Music serves as a central theme, connecting characters and enhancing their identities. Jan's polka band brings joy to many, symbolizing the power of music to transcend cultural barriers. Moreover, Mickey's journey to embrace his flamboyant stage persona showcases how music can empower individuals to express their true selves.

💰 Deception & Consequences

The film explores the theme of deception, particularly how Jan’s initial entrepreneurial spirit devolves into a Ponzi scheme. This deceit not only affects his life but also impacts those around him, raising questions about morality and the consequences of one's actions. As the story unfolds, the repercussions of these choices become tragically evident.

🙏 Redemption

Jan's journey culminates in a poignant pursuit of redemption after facing the dire consequences of his actions. His time in prison allows for reflection and transformation, as he bonds with fellow inmates through sharing and appreciating different musical genres. The theme of redemption emphasizes the possibility of change and the importance of personal growth.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:24

Unlock the Full Story of The Polka King

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The Polka King Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Polka King, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Polka King Summary

The Polka King Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Polka King with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Polka King Timeline

More About The Polka King

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More About The Polka King

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