Watch Wataha

Wataha is an intense and captivating Polish crime drama that aired on HBO in 2014. The series is set in the picturesque Tatra Mountains, where Polish border guards work tirelessly to prevent illegal smuggling and terrorist activities. The central character of the show is Captain Wiktor Rebrow, played by Leszek Lichota. Rebrow is a strong and determined leader who is committed to protecting the border and ensuring the safety of his team. However, he also has a troubled past that haunts him, making him vulnerable and emotionally complex.

The show opens with the brutal murder of a border guard, which sets the stage for a nail-biting and suspenseful storyline. The investigation into the murder uncovers a much larger conspiracy, involving not just criminal gangs, but also corrupt politicians and powerful business figures.

Rebrow and his team, which includes the tough and capable Natasza (Aleksandra Poplawska) and the young and inexperienced Orzechowski (Andrzej Zielinski), must navigate a complex web of lies and deceit to bring the killers to justice. Along the way, they encounter numerous obstacles and challenges, including traitors within their own ranks and pressure from their superiors to close the case quickly.

One of the strengths of Wataha is its depiction of the harsh realities of life on the border. The show tackles issues such as illegal immigration, human trafficking, and the exploitation of vulnerable migrants. It also explores the personal toll of working in such a dangerous and high-pressure environment, with several characters struggling to cope with the trauma they have experienced.

Despite these weighty themes, the show also has moments of levity and humor, particularly in the interactions between the characters. There are some touching moments of camaraderie and friendship that help to balance out the show's darker moments.

One of the standout aspects of Wataha is its strong cast. Lichota, in particular, delivers a standout performance as Rebrow. He manages to convey the character's toughness and determination, as well as his vulnerabilities and insecurities. Poplawska is also excellent as Natasza, who is a competent and no-nonsense presence on the team. Zielinski provides a nice counterpoint as the green and enthusiastic Orzechowski.

The show's direction, by Kasia Adamik and Michal Gazda, is also noteworthy. They manage to capture the stunning natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains, while also creating a gritty and realistic depiction of life on the border.

Overall, Wataha is a gripping and thrilling crime drama that explores important social issues while also delivering compelling characters and an engaging plot. The show's focus on the Polish border adds a unique dimension to the series, and the strong performances and direction make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.