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 – The Polka King (2018)

Trace every key event in The Polka King (2018) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Energetic Concert Performance

Jan Lewan's polka band captivates the audience during a lively concert in Pennsylvania. The vibrant atmosphere showcases not only their musical talent but also the strong bond between Jan and his wife, Marla, as they celebrate their entrepreneurial spirit.

Pennsylvania
2

Jan's Inspiring Journey

After the concert, Jan shares his remarkable story with a fan, detailing his escape from struggles in Poland. He recounts the dedication it took to build a new life in America, including a heartfelt moment when he met Marla at a charity telethon.

3

Advice for Mickey

Clarinetist Mickey Pizzazz visits Jan at his shop to seek advice about his career amid rumors about the band's unusual acts. Jan encourages Mickey to embrace their unique music and business vision, showing his belief in their potential to unite audiences.

4

Investor Assurance

As Jan's band gains financial success, an elderly couple approaches him with interest in investing in his enterprise. Jan confidently promises them a guaranteed 12% annual return, displaying his confidence in his entrepreneurial skills.

5

SEC Investigation Begins

Unbeknownst to Jan, the state Securities and Exchange Commission begins monitoring his operations. Investigator Ron Edwards visits Jan, revealing that his investment strategies are illegal and giving him a tight deadline to rectify the situation.

6

Frantic Attempts to Amend

With the clock ticking, Jan desperately tries to return the investors' money and dissolve the operation. However, he soon realizes the overwhelming amount of funds already invested makes it nearly impossible to meet the SEC's deadline.

7

Continued Deception

Despite Edwards closing the case, Jan secretly continues his investment schemes under a new name. He prepares fresh documentation for the elderly couple, who wish to increase their investment, illustrating his unwillingness to abandon the illicit operations.

8

Launch of a Travel Company

Jan embarks on a new venture, launching a travel company that promises extraordinary European tours, including a private audience with the Pope. He seeks Mickey’s assistance for this ambitious project, only for Mickey to uncover Jan's misleading practices.

Rome
9

Mickey's Transformation

As Jan misleads customers, Mickey finds inspiration in Jan's boldness and discusses his desire to create a stage persona. Together, they collaborate on Mickey's flamboyant new name, ‘Mickey Pizzazz,’ marking a new chapter in his creative journey.

10

Marla's Beauty Pageant

Marla decides to pursue her own ambitions by entering a beauty pageant with Jan's support. Her journey to become Mrs. Pennsylvania ignites controversy, leading to media scrutiny and a growing climate of distrust among their investors.

11

The Bus Tragedy

A devastating bus accident results in the loss of two lives and leaves Jan’s son in critical condition. Overwhelmed with grief, Jan pleads for his son's recovery, while feeling the weight of his choices as they begin to collide.

12

Custody and Atonement

After his son's miraculous recovery, Jan is taken into custody by law enforcement. Believing this is a sign for him to atone for his wrongdoings, he chooses to cooperate, marking a turning point in his tumultuous journey.

13

Prison Sentence

Jan is sentenced to five years in prison, losing everything he held dear, including his marriage to Marla. With his dreams shattered and his future uncertain, he faces the consequences of his actions for the first time.

Prison
14

Finding Common Ground

During his incarceration, Jan develops unexpected relationships with fellow inmates who introduce him to hip-hop. In return, he shares his passion for polka, creating an appreciation for the genre among his new friends.

Prison
15

Reunion and Revival

Upon his release from prison, Jan is warmly welcomed back by his son and Mickey. Together, they reignite the polka band that once brought them joy, indicating a hopeful new beginning as they look to the future.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 11:20

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The Polka King Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Polka King

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