Cast
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Marcin Kowalczyk
as Gangster
Tomasz Włosok
as 'Walden'
Natalia Szroeder
as Magda
Natalia Siwiec
as Viola
Jan Frycz
as Daniel
Adam Woronowicz
as Ryszard
Adam Bobik
as 'Łomek'
Piotr Rogucki
as Marian
Janusz Chabior
as 'Magi'
Józef Pawłowski
as 'Tysiek'
Marek Dyjak
as Officer Bielawski
Waldemar Kasta
as 'Golum'
Mateusz Nędza
as 'Krater'
Michał Zakrzewski
as 'Łom'
Maciej Łuczkowski
as 'Mariuszek'
Crew
Director
- Maciej Kawulski
Writer
- Krzysztof Gureczny
Producer
- Maciej Kawulski
- Tomasz Wardyn
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Crime/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, How I Became a Gangster distinguishes itself through its exceptional pacing and meaningful stakes for its protagonists.
Director Maciej Kawulski brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2019, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of How I Became a Gangster took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 140 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 184 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2019, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While How I Became a Gangster shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Informer, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, How I Became a Gangster offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Food Chain Complexity in Afforested Grounds and Analogue explore similar territory, How I Became a Gangster stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 25, 2019
- Runtime: 2h 20m
- Revenue: $5,975,729
Where to Watch
