A rebellious guitarist finds fame, freedom, and a heavy personal price behind the rock-star dream.
2026
Biography, Drama
TheNextHint Score
8.2
8.2 / 10
Overview
Less of a Stranger presents the tale of Polish rock musician Jan Borysewicz on screen via a music-driven biographical drama. The film traces the guitarist's ascent from his early fascination with rock to becoming the leader of Lady Pank, one of Poland's most recognized rock bands. Mikołaj Bukrewicz takes on the role of Borysewicz, with a supporting cast that features Kinga Preis, Ireneusz Czop, Patryk Pietrzak, Hubert Miłkowski, Krzysztof Oleksyn, and Mikołaj Matczak. Helmed by director Kristoffer Rus, the film delves into ambition, rebellion, family, creative freedom, and the fallout of fame. Instead of showing Borysewicz solely as an acclaimed musician, the story also examines the hard experiences and personal losses that molded him.
Quick Verdict
Less of a Stranger is worth your time if you appreciate music biographies, character-driven dramas, and tales of artists who defy authority and convention. Its greatest asset is the blend of rock music and personal drama, drawing on Jan Borysewicz's life to examine both artistic ambition and the consequences that follow.
Less of a Stranger is a 2026 Polish biographical music drama drawing on the life of Jan Borysewicz, the legendary guitarist and leader of the rock band Lady Pank. The film traces his path from a young musician captivated by rock music to a leading figure in Poland’s music scene. His talent and determination allow him to build a successful career, yet fame also brings personal struggles, family tragedies, conflicts with authorities, and difficult choices.
Directed by Kristoffer Rus, the movie examines both sides of Borysewicz’s life: the creative drive that turned him into a celebrated musician and the personal cost that came with his pursuit of freedom. Mikołaj Bukrewicz plays Jan Borysewicz, while Kinga Preis and Ireneusz Czop appear as his mother and father. The film also includes actors portraying members of Lady Pank, among them Patryk Pietrzak, Hubert Miłkowski, Krzysztof Oleksyn, Mikołaj Matczak, and Marcel Barra.
The film, Less of a Stranger, runs for two hours and premiered on September 21, 2026, ahead of its Netflix release on October 7, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Less of a Stranger based on a true story?
Yes. The movie is inspired by the life of Polish rock musician Jan Borysewicz, best known as the guitarist and leader of Lady Pank.
Who plays Jan Borysewicz in Less of a Stranger?
Mikołaj Bukrewicz plays Jan Borysewicz.
When was Less of a Stranger released?
The film had its world premiere on September 21, 2026, and became available on Netflix on October 7, 2026.
Where can I watch Less of a Stranger?
It is available to stream on Netflix.
Story — Spoiler Free
The film traces Jan Borysewicz as his love of rock music grows into a drive to form a successful band. His resolve ultimately guides him to Lady Pank and widespread fame, yet achievement does not resolve his personal troubles. Family tragedies, clashes with authorities, excess, and the strain of sustaining a creative identity start to take a toll on his relationships and career. The movie explores how Borysewicz's longing for freedom influences both his music and his life.
8.2
TheNextHint Score
8.2 / 10
Less of a Stranger is worth your time if you appreciate music biographies, character-driven dramas, and tales of artists who defy authority and convention. Its greatest asset is the blend of rock music and personal drama, drawing on Jan Borysewicz's life to examine both artistic ambition and the consequences that follow.
Rating breakdown
Story
8.0
Acting
8.0
Direction
8.0
Visuals
8.0
Sound
9.0
Entertainment
8.0
External Ratings
Scores from other sources, shown in their own scale. These are not TheNextHint's rating.
Mikołaj Bukrewicz gives the film a clear central performance.
Music plays an important role in the storytelling.
Explores both fame and personal consequences.
Cons
The two-hour runtime may feel slow for viewers unfamiliar with Borysewicz.
Knowledge of Polish rock history can add context.
It focuses heavily on personal and dramatic themes.
Who Should Watch
Music Biography Fans
Rock Music Lovers
Biographical Drama Fans
International Cinema Fans
Who Should Skip
Action Fans
Comedy Fans
Thriller Fans
Release Date
2026-10-07
Runtime
120 minutes
Director
Kristoffer Rus
Producer
Kristoffer Rus, Ákos Erdős, Mikołaj Wit, Dariusz Goczał
Writer
Wiktor Piątkowski, Joanna Kozłowska
Cast
Mikołaj Bukrewicz, Patryk Pietrzak, Hubert Miłkowski, Krzysztof Oleksyn, Mikołaj Matczak, Marcel Barra, Kinga Preis, Ireneusz Czop, Konrad Kąkol, Mirosław Tomczuk
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