The film, titled Jantar, is inspired by the singer’s life. Producer Robert Kijak took over the project, helping turn plans that had been discussed for more than a decade into a concrete production.
Jantar’s daughter, singer Natalia Kukulska, will oversee the project artistically.
“I am here to safeguard the truth, because I assume that if someone wants to make a film about my mother, it is because her story is interesting, not because they want to embellish it, change it or add fictional anecdotes. Especially as there are plenty of real anecdotes, and there is more than enough to tell,” she said.
She acknowledged that some simplification would be necessary because not everyone who knew Jantar could be included.
Director Daniel Jaroszek said he wanted to explore aspects of Jantar’s life that were not visible in her performances, including her dreams, fears and personal choices. He said the film would not judge her.
The film will also cover Jantar’s marriage to composer Jarosław Kukulski. Their relationship was accompanied by a decade of professional collaboration, during which they became one of the leading duos in Poland’s music scene.
The filmmakers have announced a nationwide casting call for women aged 18 to 35 to play the lead role. Candidates can apply until 20 November through a dedicated website, which provides details of the process and a scene for them to perform.
Jantar died in 1980 when the plane carrying her back from a concert tour in the United States crashed less than a kilometre from Warsaw’s Okęcie Airport. The crash killed 87 people.
Natalia Kukulska will compose the film’s music with her husband, Michał Dąbrówka, and their son, Jan.
Filming is due to begin in 2027.
(sp)
Source: PAP