Poland: The Royal Tour

Poland: The Royal Tour from 2019 is a captivating documentary that offers a novel insight into the rich history, culture, and landscapes of Poland. Starring Peter Greenberg, a globally recognized and multi award-winning travel journalist, and Mateusz Morawiecki, the serving Polish Prime Minister, this tour takes audiences along an engaging journey through the heart of Europe's eighth largest country.

With Poland's Prime Minister, Morawiecki, as the tour guide, Poland: The Royal Tour transgresses the boundaries of typical travel programs. Greenberg presents himself not only as an inquisitive traveller but also as a diligent chronicler, ensuring that audiences get a balanced view of Poland's historical journey from the depths of World War II, through the years of communism to the vibrant modern state it is today.

The tour commences in Warsaw, the capital of Poland, which was almost entirely destroyed during World War II and has since been meticulously reconstructed, showcasing Poland's resilience and determination. Viewers get a taste of the city's enriching blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectures, which resonates with glimpses of a past lost, reborn, and emphatically thriving.

Morawiecki's deep and unparalleled knowledge of Poland's history sprinkles a touch of authenticity to the conversations, aided by the locations they visit. These include the medieval castle at Wawel Hill in Krakow, the old concentration camp at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the shipyards of Gdansk that witnessed the birth of the Solidarity movement, the picturesque Mazury lake district, and the world-renowned Wieliczka Salt Mine.

One of the most powerful sequences of the tour comes as Morawiecki takes Greenberg to the former Nazi extermination camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau. In a combination of haunting visuals and heart-rending narration, its history is brilliantly brought alive, and a sense of raw reality prevails.

Poland: The Royal Tour doesn’t shy away from showing the vibrant cultural scene against the backdrop of historical edifices. Glimpses of entertaining Polish folklore, traditions, music, and the unique culinary experiences demonstrate how steeped in tradition and yet contemporarily diverse the country is. The film ventures into the country's majestic landscapes, showcasing Poland's untouched natural beauty, from its pristine Baltic Sea coastlines to its breathtakingly beautiful Tatra Mountains.

The camaraderie between Greenberg and Morawiecki is genuine and ingratiating, creating a fascinating dynamic as they engage in enlightening and entertaining exchanges throughout their journey. Their joint exploration forms the heart of the film, providing viewers a new perspective on the richness of Polish history, culture, and its people.

In addition to being a wonderful tour guide, Morawiecki, through his consistent engagement with Greenberg, presents himself as a man deeply passionate about his country. His personal anecdotes, observations, and insights of Poland's adversities and triumphs add personal depth and granularity to the viewer's perspective.

The cinematography is equally impressive, delivering breathtaking aerial shots, extensive panoramic view, and intimate close-ups that allow audiences to appreciate Poland's diverse beauty. The combination of vivid visuals, voiceover narratives, and interactions between the hosts turn Poland: The Royal Tour into an immersive virtual travel experience that captures the heart and soul of Poland.

On a deeper level, the film serves an underlying purpose as well, providing a small yet significant insight into Poland's socio-political realities. For instance, the episode at the Gdansk shipyards provides a context for the viewers to understand the birth and role of the Solidarity movement in the post-World War II era.

Poland: The Royal Tour is tailor-made for history buffs, travel enthusiasts, and anyone curious about uncovering the rich tapestry of Polish culture and history. It draws you in with its esoteric knowledge, humorous moments, touching insights, and eye-captivating visuals. This tour is not so much about sightseeing as it is about delving deep into the soul of a nation and its people. Evocative, educational, and engaging, Poland: The Royal Tour is an excellent voyage into the heart of Poland.