transcript
show notes
Netflix’s new Polish miniseries The Doll, adapted from Bolesław Prus’s 19th-century novel, has all the features of a traditional period drama: pretentious wealth, class inequality, risky investments, war, and women being pressured into marriage. Beneath the fancy costumes and horse-drawn carriages, however, lies a surprisingly violent and chaotic climax that deserves some discussion.
On the podcast, we break down the premiere, including Izabela Łęcka’s fight for independence, Stanisław Wokulski’s obsessive pursuit of her affection, and a father who may have gambled away the family fortune on a disastrous investment. We also get into the novel’s history, comparisons to The Gilded Age, Downton Abbey, The Knick, and more, and whether the cliffhanger is enough to make this pilot stand out as one of the best of the year.
Tune in to hear our thoughts and rating. Welcome to Today’s Episode!
