Polish actress Katarzyna Figura is reflecting on her iconic film career and the possibility of a third installment in the popular comedy franchise “Kiler,” according to a recent interview with Marcin Radomski for Polish public broadcaster Polskie Radio Trójka. Figura, who gained widespread recognition for her role as Rysia, the wife of gangster “Siara” in Juliusz Machulski’s 1997 comedy “Kiler” and its sequel “Kiler-ów 2-ch,” discussed her journey from early theatrical roles to international productions in Hollywood.
Early Career and Collaboration with Juliusz Machulski
According to the interview with Polskie Radio Trójka, Figura’s connection to the Machulski family began in childhood when she attended the theater club at the Ochota Theatre in Warsaw, directed by Jan Machulski. The club was run by his mother, Halina Machulska, where a young Figura played Winnie-the-Pooh in “The Adventures of Winnie-the-Pooh.” Juliusz Machulski, approximately ten years her senior, observed her early work there. Years later, after studying acting, Figura secured a major role in Machulski’s 1987 cult film “Kingsajz.” She recalled to Marcin Radomski that a particular scene featuring her character and actor Jacek Chmielnik as a dwarf walking across her body entered the canon of Polish cinema and was previously named the “most beautiful love scene.”
The Casting Backstory Behind Rysia in “Kiler”
Figura returned from Hollywood—where she had worked on prominent films like Robert Altman’s “The Player” (1992) and “Prêt-à-Porter” (1994)—specifically for her role in “Kiler,” as reported by Polskie Radio Trójka. She stated that Juliusz Machulski contacted her about a small, supporting character that other Polish actresses had reportedly rejected due to the unflattering nature of the role. Figura immediately accepted the part. Upon seeing the script, she worked with the director to expand her screen time and develop the character. Arriving straight from Los Angeles into a heavy jet lag, she immediately shot the famous scene where Rysia bursts into Kiler’s apartment wearing leopard print and red shoes to demand money and complain about her gangster husband.
Did you know? Katarzyna Figura’s extensive filmography includes collaborations with prominent directors such as Piotr Szulkin (“Ga, ga. Chwała bohaterom”), Radosław Piwowarski (“Pociąg do Hollywood”), Andrzej Kondratiuk (the “Mleczna Droga” trilogy), and Marek Koterski (“Ajlawju,” “7 uczuć”).
Developments Regarding “Kiler 3”
Regarding the potential third film in the franchise, Figura told Polskie Radio Trójka that production representatives contacted her last summer to discuss the possibility of “Kiler 3.” She confirmed that Juliusz Machulski would serve as an executive producer and provide artistic supervision, though he would not direct. Although she received a script that featured an evolved and mature Ryszarda, production has not yet commenced. Figura noted that she has long envisioned a continuation titled “Kiler-ka,” centered on her character as the primary protagonist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed the comedy films “Kiler” and “Kingsajz”?
Both films were directed by Juliusz Machulski, a prominent Polish filmmaker.
Which international films did Katarzyna Figura appear in during the 1990s?
According to Polskie Radio Trójka, Figura appeared in Hollywood productions including Robert Altman’s “The Player” (1992) and “Prêt-à-Porter” (1994).
What awards has Katarzyna Figura won for her acting?
Figura won the acting award at the Polish Film Festival (FPFF) in Gdynia for her leading role in Ryszard Brylski’s 2002 film “Żurek.”
To explore more film interviews and cultural coverage, visit the official Polskie Radio Trójka website and listen to the complete discussion.
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