Three distinct films titled Lalka (The Doll) will hit screens in 2026, including two competing adaptations of Bolesław Prus’s classic novel and one independent horror slasher. According to production announcements, the projects range from a traditional cinematic adaptation by Maciej Kawalski and a subversive Netflix series by Paweł Maślona to a Tennessee-based horror film by Rod Blackhurst.
How do the two Prus adaptations differ?
The primary difference lies in their approach to the source material and distribution. Maciej Kawalski’s version is described as a faithful, large-scale adaptation of the novel. It features a high-profile cast including Marcin Dorociński as Wokulski, Kamila Urzędowska as Łęcka, and Marek Kondrat, who returns from retirement to play Rzecki. This production is scheduled for a September 30 premiere.
In contrast, Netflix’s Lalka, directed by Paweł Maślona (known for the film Kos), takes a more experimental approach. Maślona describes his project as “personal,” “wild,” and “surprising.” Rather than a literal translation of the book, the streaming series intends to rewrite the story. This version stars Tomasz Schuchardt as Wokulski and Sandra Drzymalska as Łęcka, with a premiere set for September 16.
What is the third ‘Lalka’ and how does it relate to the others?
The third film has no connection to the works of Bolesław Prus. It is an independent slasher horror directed by Rod Blackhurst, based on his 2022 short film. Scheduled for an August 14 release, the plot follows a woman named Macy fighting for survival in the mountains of Tennessee after being kidnapped by a monster with a porcelain head.
While the Prus adaptations focus on 19th-century social dynamics and obsessive love, Blackhurst’s film focuses on visceral action and brutality. Reviews from its 2025 world premiere at Fantastic Fest highlight the movie’s relentless action scenes and heavy use of gore.
Comparison of the 2026 ‘Lalka’ Productions
| Feature | Kawalski’s Film | Netflix Series | Blackhurst’s Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genre | Adaptation | Adaptation | Horror/Slasher |
| Wokulski Actor | Marcin Dorociński | Tomasz Schuchardt | N/A |
| Approach | Faithful Adaptation | Personal Reinterpretation | Original Slasher |
| Release Date | Sept 30 | Sept 16 | Aug 14 |
Why does this trend of multiple adaptations matter?
This creates a direct market test: will audiences prefer the "homage" approach of Maciej Kawalski or the "wild" vision of Paweł Maślona?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ‘Lalka’ is the most faithful to the book?
According to production announcements, Maciej Kawalski’s film is the faithful adaptation, while the Netflix series by Paweł Maślona is a reinterpretation.
Who plays Wokulski in the different versions?
Marcin Dorociński plays Wokulski in the cinematic version, and Tomasz Schuchardt plays him in the Netflix series.
Is the horror movie ‘Lalka’ based on Bolesław Prus?
No. The horror film directed by Rod Blackhurst is an independent slasher and has no connection to the novel by Prus.
Which version of Lalka are you most interested in: the classic, the subversive, or the scary? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more cinema updates.
