The phenomenon of pop culture of the PRL era
Although almost 60 years have passed since the premiere of the first episode of “Stawka greater than life”, it constantly enjoys popularity and attracts crowds of viewers in front of televisions. The series was created as a response to the popular adventures of James Bond and is still considered one of the best Polish sensational series. The history of the J-23 agent, operating under the pseudonym Hans Kloss, draws in dynamic action and expressive characters. The idea of realizing the series was born after the success of the 14th episode spectacle of the Television Theater broadcast under the same title. The series version consists of 18 episodes, in which as many as 700 actors performed. Production has gained popularity not only in Poland, the series was also eagerly viewed in Czechoslovakia, the USSR or Greece.
The plot of the series – Polish James Bond
The series takes place during World War II. Stanisław Kolicki, a young Pole, escapes from German captivity and goes to the Soviet side. There, it turns out that he is confusingly similar to lieutenant Abwehr, who was sent to Soviet captivity. After intensive training, Kolicki accepts his identity and as Hans Kloss – Agent J -23 begins to conduct espionage on the enemy side. Thanks to the commitment and well -played role of the German officer, he provides valuable information of the Red Army. Each episode of the series is a new mission and new challenges. Agent J-23 is not only intelligent and composed hero, but also fearless and very effective. His reliable intuition allows him to get out of every oppression.
Cast and creators
In the main role in the series we can see the charismatic Stanisław Mikulski, whose creation of Hans Kloss has permanently entered the history of Polish pop culture. Emil Karewicz, as Hermann Brunner – a brutal and cynical antagonist. Their brilliant verbal duels are one of the greatest advantages of the series. To this day, the famous sentence “these numbers Brunner” have survived in Polish culture.
The series is a real feast for fans of former series, realistic scenery and great directing by Andrzej Konica and Janusz Morgenstern. The headlamp, with a characteristic dynamic melody in memory, is the hallmark of the series. The author of the music is jazzman Jerzy “Duduś” Matuszkiewicz, and the words to the song “There was such time” wrote Wojciech Młynarski. After years, the song was again performed by Krzysztof Cugowski on the KFPP stage in Opole.
Where will the viewers watch the iconic series?
The first episode of “Stawki greater than life” will be broadcast on Polish cinema on Thursday, June 12 at 17:30. The series will be presented in the afternoon band from Monday to Friday at 17:10.
