"Kibic" - Netflix dives into Polish football fan culture
Netflix is once again making noise on the Polish market. This time it takes on one of the most controversial topics of our time - football fan culture. A subject that sparks as much fascination as it does fear. In January 2025 the series titled "Kibic" is set to hit the platform. Will it be a big hit or a total flop Let’s take a closer look.
Polish fans on screen: how to show the truth
The creators promise this won’t be just another overblown drama with violence in the background. It’s meant to feel authentic - from stadium choreographies to underground supporter networks and the brutal fights that often end in the ER. Netflix wants to show that being a fan isn’t only about love for football but also a life full of extremes - loyalty, betrayal, passion and danger.
The question is whether they can do it in a way that satisfies both the diehards on the terraces and those who only know fan culture from the news. It will be a tightrope walk between glorifying ultras and criticising them. One thing is sure: Netflix has stirred the pot. Either it will be something great or a global cringe fest.
The cast: does it even make sense
Marta Żmuda Trzebiatowska as a sports journalist and Karol Pocheć as the leader of the ultras. Did someone in casting make a bet on who could come up with the most absurd roles Żmuda Trzebiatowska, best known for rom coms, as a tough reporter trying to infiltrate the fan world. Hard to imagine, but maybe Netflix knows something we don’t.
And Karol Pocheć Taking the central role in stadium riots sounds like a surprising choice. But maybe that’s exactly why it could work. If he throws himself into the role with conviction, he might just win us over.
The script comes from Tomasz Klimala, who has already proved he can write strong stories ("Rojst"). Directing is handled by Michał Gazda - the man behind the dark vibe of "Kruk" and "Wataha". And the soundtrack is by Miuosh, whose beats are set to give the show its street edge. Will that be enough to pull us into the world of Polish football culture We’ll see.
Realism is the key word
Filming will take place in real stadiums, housing estates and places that fans call their second home. Warsaw, Łódź, Silesia - Netflix wants to show the diversity and uniqueness of the Polish supporter scene. On one hand we’ll see stunning choreographies and chants, on the other - the raw violence of fights, both organised and spontaneous. The creators promise no sugar coating, just grit and reality.
The series will also show life beyond the stadium - families, broken relationships, conflicts of loyalty and tough moral choices. Netflix aims to deliver an emotional story that proves being a fan is more than just a hobby.
Premiere: hit or miss
Netflix is once again gambling on a risky project. For some, "Kibic" is a chance to show the true face of Polish football culture. For others, it’s just a way to stir controversy and grab headlines. Will the creators manage to satisfy both ultras and their critics Highly unlikely. Everyone knows pleasing both sides here is like a Polish club winning the Champions League. The team has to face sky high expectations from both camps.
One thing is certain - the series will trigger strong emotions. Will "Kibic" be the success that finally shows Polish reality in an authentic light Or will it end up as a clumsy attempt to portray a world Netflix simply doesn’t get For now we can only hope it won’t be another flashy idea with a weak execution. "Kibic" lands on Netflix on 29 January 2025.
