Jan. 05, 2022|Poland|179 Min.|n/A
Genre: Crime;Drama
Description: “How I Fell in Love with a Gangster,” released in 2022, is a gripping tale directed by Maciej Kawulski that chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous Polish gangster Nikodem “Nikos” Skotarczak. The film opens with a striking scene set to the tune of “Big in Japan,” featuring a woman lying in a blood-filled bathtub, immediately setting the tone for an intense and gritty narrative.
Spanning three hours, the movie delivers on its promise of being a relentless and flashy gangster epic. Its soundtrack alternates between vibrant Eastern European techno beats and classic rock hits, complemented by stylish cinematography with cool blue tones. The performances are theatrical, ensuring the audience remains captivated throughout.
The story follows Nikos (played by Tomasz Wlosok) from his childhood, where he experiences a life-changing moment akin to Henry Hill’s realization in “Goodfellas.” Inspired by witnessing a man conning people by exchanging currency, Nikos discovers his passion for hustling. As he grows older, he transitions from small-scale scams to building a criminal empire, becoming one of Europe’s most feared figures. His exploits include stealing German cars and selling them in Poland, cementing his notoriety.
Skotarczak’s life is undeniably compelling, and the film captures the allure and danger of his world. While gangster films are a well-trodden genre, they remain popular due to their inherent excitement and drama. However, this familiarity also poses a challenge for filmmakers to create something fresh and memorable. Despite this, “How I Fell in Love with a Gangster” stands out with its unique style and gripping portrayal of a real-life crime lord.”
Cast director: Maciej Kawulski
Cast actor: Tomasz Włosok, Aleks Kurdzielewicz, Antoni Królikowski, Agnieszka Grochowska, Magdalena Lamparska, Krystyna Janda, Klaudiusz Kaufmann, Eryk Lubos, Sebastian Fabijański, Julia Wieniawa-Narkiewicz
Original name: Jak pokochałam gangstera