“Project UFO” is a complex Polish series now streaming on Netflix. Set against the backdrop of a supposed UFO landing in the 1980s, the show delves into the social and political landscape of that era in Poland. Written and directed by Kasper Bajon, “Project UFO” stars Piotr Adamczyk and Mateusz Kosciukiewicz.
Filming took place in Warmia, Poland, the same region where the alleged UFO incident occurs in the series.
The Plot Unfolds
The central mystery of “Project UFO” ignites with the purported crash of an unidentified flying object in Truskasy, a town in Poland’s Warmia region. This extraordinary event brings together an unlikely pair of investigators: a once-famous television personality whose star is fading, and a dedicated UFO enthusiast. Driven by their unique perspectives and theories about the origins of these supposed alien visitors, the duo embarks on an intellectual journey to uncover the truth behind the landing. Their quest involves navigating a landscape of speculation and debate, as each tries to convince the world of their interpretation of the unfolding events.
Meanwhile, Poland is experiencing political upheaval, and a key figure seeks to exploit the situation to consolidate power nationwide, adding a layer of complexity and tension to the narrative.
This intricate story unfolds over four episodes, presented as a limited series. The dynamic between the skeptical, yet perhaps opportunistic, former TV star and the fervent believer in extraterrestrials forms a compelling core of the story. It suggests an exploration of how different individuals and social groups react to the unbelievable. The introduction of a political figure manipulating the situation hints at a deeper examination of trust, power, and the potential for misinformation in times of crisis.
The Creative Team Behind “Project UFO”
The creative force leading the project is Kasper Bajon, who serves as both director and writer. Bajon is also known for his work on other successful Polish series for Netflix, including “High Water” and the “The Mire” trilogy. His prior experience in crafting engaging narratives for a broad audience bodes well for “Project UFO”.
The cast features well-known Polish actors, including Piotr Adamczyk, Mateusz Kościukiewicz, Julia Kijowska, and Maja Ostaszewska. The series is produced by Anna Kępińska, with Telemark as the primary production company.
Poland in the 1980s: A Nation in Flux
To fully appreciate the context of “Project UFO”, it’s essential to consider the sociopolitical landscape of Poland in the 1980s. This was a period marked by significant political tension and social change. The Polish People’s Republic, under communist rule, faced growing dissent, notably with the rise of the Solidarity movement and the subsequent imposition of martial law in the early part of the decade. The atmosphere was often charged with suspicion and a sense of potential external threats, a backdrop likely amplified by the ongoing Cold War.
Interestingly, this era also saw a notable interest in UFO phenomena within Poland, with the widely reported Emilcin abduction incident of 1978 serving as a key example. The media landscape in 1980s Poland was under state control, which would have significantly influenced the dissemination and perception of any news, especially something as extraordinary as a UFO landing. The backdrop of political and social unrest in 1980s Poland provides a rich and complex setting for a story about a UFO landing.
The existing social anxieties and the potential for external threats, inherent in the Cold War context, could easily be projected onto an alien encounter. The real-life Emilcin incident demonstrates that Polish society had a pre-existing fascination with UFOs during this time.
About the Series
“Project UFO” effectively captures the context and atmosphere of the 1980s, a tone common to many Polish series recently released on Netflix.
While inspired by true events and containing elements of dark humor, “Project UFO” is not primarily a comedy. Instead, it offers a social portrait of an era and its characters who, under the guise of a UFO event, are trying to navigate a turbulent time.
Technically, “Project UFO” is a well-crafted series, with quality in both the writing and the final production. It unfolds at a deliberate pace, taking its time to tell its story without resorting to moralizing. The series allows the viewer to analyze the motivations of the characters and understand why this supposed landing was so significant.
Enjoy the show.
Where to Watch “Project UFO”
