The Polka King
Jack Black is an immigrant polka performer who defrauds local residents via a Ponzi scheme in this comedy based on a true story.
This is the improbable but true story of the rise and fall of Polish émigré Jan Lewan (Black), from striving tchotchke shop owner in the '70s to the undisputed "King of Pennsylvania Polka" in the early '90s. Lewan pursued the American Dream by any means necessary, fleecing investors and bribing officials to build a personal musical empire in what became the world's only known polka Ponzi scheme. Swept up by Lewan's charismatic charm are his devoted wife, Marla (Jenny Slate), and his neurotic sidekick, Mickey (Jason Schwartzman).
- Director:
- Maya Forbes ('Infinitely Polar Bear')Wallace Wolodarsky ('Seeing Other People', 'Sorority Boys', 'Coldblooded')
- Writer:
- Maya ForbesWallace Wolodarsky
- Cast:
- Jack BlackJenny SlateJason SchwartzmanJacki WeaverJ.B. SmooveVanessa BayerWillie GarsonRobert Capron
Reviews & comments
Screen Daily
pressBlack does his best to make Jan a vulnerable and sympathetic character, but neither the script nor the direction allows him to become fully dimensional.
Hollywood Reporter
pressInspires some sympathy for its protagonist but not enough to carry the film.
Collider
pressThe truth in his story may be stranger than fiction, but 'The Polka King' is largely unconcerned about what that truth means beyond funny music and shady deals.
Screen Daily
pressBlack does his best to make Jan a vulnerable and sympathetic character, but neither the script nor the direction allows him to become fully dimensional.
Hollywood Reporter
pressInspires some sympathy for its protagonist but not enough to carry the film.
Collider
pressThe truth in his story may be stranger than fiction, but 'The Polka King' is largely unconcerned about what that truth means beyond funny music and shady deals.
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