The Polka King 2017
"The greatest scandal in polka history."
Step into the wild world of polka music with *The Polka King (2017)*, a true-crime comedy directed by Maya Forbes.
Director: Maya Forbes
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Polka King (2017) about?
Based on a true story, this comedy follows Jan Lewan, a beloved Pennsylvania polka musician whose unchecked ambition leads him to orchestrate a Ponzi scheme that shocks his community and lands him in jail. The film dives into his rise, downfall, and the unexpected lessons learned along the way.
Who directed The Polka King?
Maya Forbes directed *The Polka King*, bringing her keen eye for character-driven comedies to this offbeat true-crime story.
Who stars in The Polka King?
Jack Black headlines the cast alongside Jenny Slate, Jason Schwartzman, Jacki Weaver, and JB Smoove in this lively ensemble.
Is The Polka King (2017) worth watching?
With a runtime of just 95 minutes and a genre-bending blend of humor and heart, *The Polka King* is a fun, feel-good pick for fans of character-driven comedies. Jack Black's performance alone makes it worth a watch, even if the premise sounds niche at first.
How long is The Polka King?
*The Polka King* runs for 95 minutes, making it a perfect quick pick for a lighthearted movie night.
🎥 Trailer
The Polka King (2017) — Jack Black Stars in the Wild True-Crime Comedy
Step into the wild world of polka music with *The Polka King (2017)*, a true-crime comedy directed by Maya Forbes. Inspired by the outrageous life of Jan Lewan, a Pennsylvania polka legend whose ambition spirals into financial scandal, this film blends offbeat humor with a surprisingly heartfelt story. Jack Black delivers a scene-stealing performance as Lewan, a charismatic but reckless band leader who crosses ethical lines to secure his dreams. Backed by a stellar cast including Jenny Slate, Jason Schwartzman, and Jacki Weaver, the movie captures the vibrancy of small-town America while poking fun at the absurdity of its characters' choices. With its lively soundtrack and sharp satire, the film explores themes of ambition, trust, and the fine line between showmanship and deception.
Set against the glittering backdrop of 1990s polka culture, *The Polka King* delivers a mix of cringe-worthy moments and genuine warmth. The film's tone balances slapstick humor with poignant reflections on community and redemption, making it more than just a quirky comedy. Forbes' direction keeps the story grounded in its absurdity while maintaining a lighthearted, feel-good energy. Whether you're a polka fan or just here for the chaos, this movie offers an entertaining ride packed with unforgettable characters and a few too-real lessons about chasing fame at any cost.