‘Mothers of Penguins’: Artistic authenticity and social resonance in depicting autism parenting – analysis of film techniques and cultural impact

Abstract: This research paper provides an in-depth analysis of the Polish TV series “Mat- ki Pingwinów” (Mothers of Penguins), which premiered on Netflix in 2024. The series explores the challenges of parenting children on the autism spectrum, offering a realistic and empathetic portrayal of family dynamics, societal pressures, and personal growth. This paper argues that the series effectively utilizes specific film techniques, authentic scenography, nuanced performances, and a carefully crafted screenplay to achieve artis- tic authenticity while fostering significant social resonance and contributing to discus- sions on disability representation and narrative ethics. Key elements examined include the cinéma verité-inspired film techniques, the screenplay’s reflection of multifaceted realities, the emotionally resonant acting performances, and the series’ cultural impact as evidenced by audience reception. By blending artistic excellence with social relevance, Matki Pingwinów serves as both a compelling drama and a vital contribution to global conversations about inclusion, representation, and the ethical considerations of portray- ing vulnerable groups.

Keywords: Polish television drama, autism representation, parenting special needs, doc- umentary storytelling, narrative ethics

About the Author

Bachelor of Arts candidate in Cultural Studies at Akademia Humanistyczno-Ekonomiczna w Łodzi, served as Chief of Board Member at Tech NGO Foundation and worked as an IT Configuration Analyst at AON. His research focuses on Internet culture, LGBTQ+ spac- es in Central-East Europe, and social performativity in tech-mediated environments, with methodological expertise in mixed-methods data collection using ex. EBSCO, Re- searchGate, and Google Scholar. Notable contributions include conference presentations: “Doświadczenie studiowania online...” (2023 Kraków Conference) analyzing digital ed- ucation, and “Patologie kultury internetu...” (2024 Łódź Symposium) examining online community dynamics. His work bridges academic analysis with practical work experi- ence.

Introduction: context, thesis, and theoretical framework

The Polish television series Matki Pingwinów (Mothers of Penguins), released on Net- flix in 2024, has garnered significant attention for its portrayal of families raising children on the autism spectrum. This paper aims to analyse how the series achieves artistic authenticity and social resonance by examining its film techniques, scenog- raphy, screenplay, acting performances, and audience reception. The central thesis is that Matki Pingwinów successfully employs a blend of realistic aesthetics, inspired by documentary traditions like cinéma vérité, and narrative strategies common to dra- matic storytelling to create an empathetic and impactful representation of autism parenting, thereby contributing meaningfully to social discourse on disability, inclu- sion, and the ethics of representation.

Methodologically, this analysis involves a close reading of the series’ formal el- ements (cinematography, editing, sound, scenography) and narrative components (plot, character development, dialogue), contextualized within theories of documen- tary storytelling, media representation, and narrative ethics. We will explore how the series navigates the complex terrain of depicting a neurodevelopmental condition like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – understood here as a condition character- ized by challenges with social communication and interaction, and restricted or re- petitive behaviours, interests, or activities1 – while striving for artistic authenticity. Authenticity, in this context, refers not necessarily to a direct, unmediated reflection of reality (an impossibility in any mediated form), but rather to the creation of a be- lievable, emotionally resonant world that respects the lived experiences it portrays.2

The analysis draws upon concepts from documentary film theory, particularly the tension between representing reality and the inherent subjectivity of the film-

1 American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, American Psychiatric Publishing, Arlington VA 2013.

2 K. Beattie, Documentary Screens: Non-Fiction Film and Television, Palgrave Macmillan, Lon- don 2004.

maker’s perspective. While Matki Pingwinów is a fictional drama, its adoption of techniques associated with cinéma vérité – such as handheld cameras and natural lighting – signals an aspiration towards realism and immediacy, blurring the lines of- ten drawn between fiction and non-fiction.3 Furthermore, following Bernard4, we ac- knowledge that even non-fiction narratives utilize universal storytelling elements like plot structure, character arcs, and a distinct standpoint. Understanding how these el- ements function in Matki Pingwinów is crucial to evaluating its effectiveness.

Film techniques and scenography

The visual and technical aspects of Matki Pingwinów stand out as integral elements that enhance the series’ emotional resonance and realism. The directors, Klara Ko- chańska-Bajon and Jagoda Szelc, employ an approach reminiscent of cinéma vérité, characterized by its raw, unembellished visual style.5 This technique, often defined by its aim to capture reality with minimal directorial intervention, gives the audience an intimate, almost documentary-like view of the characters’ lives, drawing them deeper into the story. Film techniques such as handheld camera work and the prev- alent use of natural lighting create a sense of immediacy and authenticity, making the audience feel as though they are observing real-life events rather than a conven- tionally polished fictional narrative. The subtle, understated cinematography avoids the overt dramatization often seen in traditional TV dramas, instead opting for a tone that mirrors the quiet struggles and moments of joy experienced by families rais- ing children with disabilities. This stylistic choice aligns with the series’ aspiration to present an authentic portrayal, grounding the drama in a sense of lived reality.

The scenography, crafted by Alicja Kazimierczak, further underscores the series’ commitment to authenticity. The settings reflect the lived realities of the characters, with particular attention paid to the details of domestic spaces. Homes are portrayed as functional rather than idealized, filled with the clutter and chaos typical of fami- lies with young children, echoing findings in studies on family home environments and autism (e.g., Hedley et al.,6 who discuss the importance of home environments). These spaces are not only visually engaging but also emotionally evocative, as they reflect the mental and emotional states of the characters. For instance, the meticu- lous organization of one parent’s home contrasts sharply with the disarray in anoth- er, symbolizing their differing approaches to coping with the demands of parenting a child on the autism spectrum.

4 S. Bernard, Documentary Storytelling: Making Stronger and More Dramatic Nonfiction Films, Routledge, London & New York 2010..

6 D. Hedley, D. McConnell, B. Furlonger, Autism and family home movies: A comprehensive re- view, “Autism”, no. 10(4)/2006.

Moreover, the series uses location-based storytelling to expand its emotional landscape. Scenes set in therapy centres, schools, and community spaces highlight the societal structures that intersect with the personal struggles of the families. Each location is imbued with a sense of purpose, serving not just as a backdrop but as a narrative tool that reveals the complexities of navigating public and private life with a child with special needs. By combining authentic visuals with carefully chosen envi- ronments, Matki Pingwinów offers a textured and deeply resonant viewing experience that invites audiences to engage with the nuances of its subject, reflecting a documen- tary impulse within its fictional framework.7

Image 1. Scene from the Matki Pingwinów (Mothers of Penguins), adapted from Matki Pingwinów by Piotr Litwic/Netflix, 2024.

Acting performances

The acting performances in Matki Pingwinów are a cornerstone of the series’ suc- cess, with the cast delivering deeply authentic and emotionally charged portrayals that resonate with viewers. Masza Wągrocka, in the role of Kamila Barska, provides a standout performance as a mother grappling with the complexities of raising a child diagnosed with autism. Her character’s emotional journey – from denial and frustra- tion to acceptance and empowerment – is depicted with remarkable subtlety. Wągro- cka skilfully captures the raw vulnerability and resilience of a parent navigating un- charted emotional territory, allowing the audience to connect with Kamila’s struggles

on a personal level. This nuanced portrayal avoids simplistic representations often found in media depictions of disability parenting.

Similarly, Barbara Wypych as Ula Wojtal and Magdalena Różczka as Tatiana Tracz bring a nuanced depth to their roles as two other mothers facing unique challenges in their parenting journeys. Wypych’s portrayal of Ula is particularly compelling; she balances moments of quiet despair with bursts of fierce advocacy for her child, cre- ating a character that feels profoundly real. Różczka’s performance, meanwhile, adds a sense of calm determination to the ensemble, showcasing the diverse emotional re- sponses parents have when confronted with the challenges of raising children with special needs. These performances contribute significantly to the series’ exploration of the varied experiences within the autism community, reflecting the complex reali- ties discussed in parent-focused research (e.g., Pinto et al.,8, on the experiences of au- tistic mothers).

The supporting cast, including the child actors, also deserves recognition. By casting children with disabilities, the directors not only lend authenticity to the series but also provide a platform for these young performers to shine, addressing ethical considerations around representation.9 Their natural and unfiltered performanc- es add layers of realism, allowing the audience to see the world through their eyes. Scenes between parents and children are particularly poignant, as the actors convey a wide range of emotions – love, frustration, joy, and exhaustion – with such sincerity that it transcends the screen.

Audience and critical reactions have repeatedly highlighted the ensemble cast as one of the series’ greatest strengths. On platforms like Filmweb, viewers have praised the performances for their emotional depth and relatability.10 Many have noted that the actors successfully avoid clichés often associated with portrayals of disability, in- stead presenting fully realized, multidimensional characters. The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, as their interactions feel organic and unscripted, fur- ther enhancing the series’ authentic tone. Together, the actors bring Matki Pingwinów to life, making it not just a story about autism but a deeply human narrative about love, resilience, and community.

8 R.I. Pinto, A.I. Pinto, A. Pereira, ‘I Am An Autistic Mother With an Autistic Child’: Documen- tary Analysis of Family Overload, “Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders”, https://www. researchgate.net/publication/383376310_I_Am_An_Autistic_Mother_With_an_Autistic_Child_ Documentary_Analysis_of_Family_Overload [accessed: 30.04.2025].

9 S. Murray, Representing Autism: Culture, Narrative, Fascination, Liverpool University Press, Liverpool 2008.

10 Dyskusje, Forum – Matki pingwinów, Filmweb, 2024, https://www.filmweb.pl/serial/Mat- ki+pingwinów-2024-10049727/discussion?plusMinus=true&page=2 [accessed: 30.04.2025].

Image 2. Scene from the Matki Pingwinów (Mothers of Penguins), adapted from Matki Pingwinów by Netflix, 2024/

Source: https://agencjacosmos.pl/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Matki-pingwinow.jpeg.

Screenplay and dialogues

The screenplay of Matki Pingwinów is a masterful blend of authenticity, sensitivity, and relatability, drawing its strength from the deeply personal experiences of co-cre- ator Klara Kochańska-Bajon. Developed in collaboration with Dorota Trzaska and Nina Lewandowska, the script is notable for its ability to capture the raw and complex emotions of parenting children on the autism spectrum. What sets the screenplay apart is its refusal to romanticize or simplify the challenges faced by its characters. Instead, it presents a balanced and multifaceted portrayal of their lives, showcasing moments of frustration, fear, and exhaustion alongside instances of love, joy, and tri- umph. This nuanced approach ensures that the story resonates with a wide audience, offering both representation for those with similar experiences and insight for those unfamiliar with the subject, aligning with principles of effective documentary story- telling that prioritize complexity over simplification.11

The dialogues are one of the series’ standout features, characterized by their nat- ural and unfiltered quality. Conversations between characters are not polished or idealized, but instead reflect the sometimes messy and emotionally charged realities of real-life interactions. This authenticity allows the audience to deeply connect with the characters, as their words and emotions feel genuine and relatable. The script avoids clichés and overdramatization, instead opting for subtle and realistic exchang- es that mirror everyday conversations. For instance, scenes where parents discuss

their children’s progress – or lack thereof – are laced with a mix of hope and frustra- tion, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of their experiences. As noted in a Filmweb review, “The parents are not depicted as saints; they lose patience, make mistakes, and sometimes act selfishly, just like anyone else. This honesty makes them deeply human and relatable”.12 This commitment to portraying flawed, complex characters contributes to the narrative’s ethical grounding, avoiding hagiography and presenting relatable human struggles.13

Another significant aspect of the screenplay is its ability to convey the unspoken. Many of the most powerful moments in Matki Pingwinów are found in what is left unsaid – the lingering silences, hesitant pauses, or loaded glances between characters. These subtle cues speak volumes about the emotional weight carried by the parents and their children, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Through its carefully crafted dialogues and realistic scenarios, the screenplay of Matki Pingwinów not only tells a compelling story but also creates a space for empathy, reflection, and under- standing, making it one of the most impactful elements of the series.

Image 3. Scene from the Matki Pingwinów (Mothers of Penguins), adapted from Matki Pingwinów by Netflix, 2024.

13 J. Habermas, B. Fultner (transl.), The Language Game of Responsible Agency and the Problem of Free Will: How Can Epistemic Dualism Be Reconciled with Ontological Monism?, “Philosophical Explorations”, no. 10(1)/2008, pp. 13–50. [Note: This is a general source on narrative ethics/agen- cy, the specific link provided in the feedback was to a summary page, citing a primary source like Habermas or alternatives like Nussbaum or Levinas might be more academically robust depending on the specific ethical argument].

Social opinion and audience reception

The social opinion and audience reception of Matki Pingwinów have been over- whelmingly positive, cementing its status as both a cultural touchstone and a cata- lyst for meaningful dialogue about parenting, autism, and societal attitudes toward disability. From the outset, the series was lauded for addressing a subject matter that is often overlooked in mainstream media – raising children on the autism spec- trum. Critics and audiences alike have praised its honest and empathetic portrayal of the challenges and triumphs experienced by families with children who have spe- cial needs. On Filmweb, a prominent Polish entertainment platform, the series holds a strong audience rating of 7.6/10, based on over 16,000 votes. This high score reflects the resonance it has found with a broad demographic of viewers, including parents of children with disabilities, educators, and general audiences who were drawn to its relatable and heartfelt storytelling.

On social media and online forums (e.g. Forum dyskusyjne Gazeta.pl14, Joe Mon- ster15), discussions about the series reveal its emotional impact and capacity to foster empathy. Many viewers have expressed how deeply they connected with the charac- ters and their struggles. Posts on parenting forums highlight how Matki Pingwinów has sparked conversations about the daily realities of raising children with autism, such as navigating educational systems, accessing therapies, and dealing with societal judgments. Comments like, “This show finally talks about parents, not just the chil- dren,” underscore the rarity and significance of its perspective. For many, the series has served as a mirror of their experiences, validating feelings of exhaustion, hope, and determination that are often underrepresented in the media, potentially reducing stigma and fostering community.16

Critics have also praised the series for its ability to address a sensitive topic with- out falling into the traps of melodrama or sentimentality. Instead, Matki Pingwinów strikes a balance between poignancy and humour, capturing the full spectrum of hu- man emotion. Reviewers have noted how the show’s humour provides moments of levity, making its heavier themes more accessible. Blogs such as “Autyzm po ludz- ku” commend its role in raising awareness and humanizing the experiences of fami- lies living with autism: “It’s not just a story about autism–it’s a story about resilience, about love, and about finding joy in the small victories”.17 This reception suggests

15 Matki pingwinów, Joe Monster, 2024, https://joemonster.org/phorum/read.php?f=44&t=46720 [accessed: 30.04.2025].

16 P.W. Corrigan, A.C. Watson, Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental ill- ness, “World Psychiatry”, no. 1(1)/2002.

17 A. Sułkowska, Matki pingwinów – recenzja, Autyzm po ludzku, 20 November 2024, https:// www.autyzmpoludzku.pl/2024/11/20/matki-pingwinow/ [accessed: 30.04.2025].

the series successfully navigates the ethical considerations of representation, offering a humanizing portrayal rather than one focused solely on deficit or tragedy.18

Beyond Poland, the series has started to attract attention from international audi- ences through Netflix, positioning itself as a meaningful contribution to global con- versations about inclusion and representation. The authentic portrayal of autism and its impact on families has resonated with viewers worldwide, prompting calls for sim- ilar stories in other cultural contexts. By presenting its characters with dignity, com- plexity, and honesty, Matki Pingwinów has become more than just a television series – it has become a tool for fostering understanding and a symbol of hope for families who see themselves in its narrative. As conversations about disability and inclusion continue to gain prominence, Matki Pingwinów stands as an exemplary work that bridges the gap between entertainment and advocacy, leaving a lasting impression on its audience.

Conclusion

Matki Pingwinów represents a significant and vital addition to contemporary Polish television and the broader landscape of media dealing with disability. Through its thoughtful integration of cinéma verité-inspired techniques, authentic scenography, a nuanced screenplay rooted in lived experience, and outstandingly genuine perfor- mances, the series offers a compelling and deeply human portrayal of families raising children on the autism spectrum.

The series successfully navigates the complexities of artistic authenticity and so- cial responsibility. By avoiding stereotypes and sentimentality, and instead focusing on the multifaceted realities of its characters’ lives – their struggles, joys, flaws, and resilience – Matki Pingwinów achieves a profound emotional resonance. Its positive reception highlights its capacity to foster empathy, challenge societal misconceptions about autism, and contribute to important conversations about inclusion, representa- tion, and the ethical dimensions of storytelling. Ultimately, Matki Pingwinów stands as a powerful example of how television drama can function as both a compelling artistic achievement and a meaningful social statement, reminding us of the crucial role narrative plays in shaping understanding and fostering a more inclusive society.

References

American Psychiatric Association, Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disor- ders, American Psychiatric Publishing, Arlington VA 2013.

Beattie K., Documentary Screens: Non-Fiction Film and Television, Palgrave Macmil- lan, London 2004.

Bernard S., Documentary Storytelling: Making Stronger and More Dramatic Nonfiction Films, Routledge, London & New York 2010.

Corrigan P.W., Watson A.C., Understanding the impact of stigma on people with men- tal illness, “World Psychiatry”, no. 1(1)/2002, pp. 16–20.

Habermas J., Fultner B. (Transl.), The Language Game of Responsible Agency and the Problem of Free Will: How Can Epistemic Dualism Be Reconciled with On- tological Monism?, “Philosophical Explorations”, no. 10(1)/2008, pp. 13–50.

Hedley D., McConnell D., Furlonger B., Autism and family home movies: A compre- hensive review, “Autism”, no. 10(4)/2006, pp. 347–367, https://www.research- gate.net/publication/7096456_Autism_and_family_home_movies_A_com- prehensive_review [accessed: 30.04.2025].

Matki pingwinów, forum.gazeta.pl, 2024, https://forum.gazeta.pl/forum/w,567,- 178303523,178303523,matki_pingwinow.html [accessed: 30.04.2025].

Matki pingwinów, Joe Monster, 2024, https://joemonster.org/phorum/read. php?f=44&t=46720 [accessed: 30.04.2025].

Murray S., Representing Autism: Culture, Narrative, Fascination, Liverpool University Press, Liverpool 2008.

Pinto R.I., Pinto A.I., Pereira A., ‘I Am An Autistic Mother With an Autistic Child’: Documentary Analysis of Family Overload, “Journal of Autism and Develop- mental Disorders”, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/383376310_I_ Am_An_Autistic_Mother_With_an_Autistic_Child_Documentary_Analy- sis_of_Family_Overload [accessed: 30.04.2025].

Sułkowska A., Matki pingwinów – recenzja, Autyzm po ludzku, 20 November 2024, https://www.autyzmpoludzku.pl/2024/11/20/matki-pingwinow/ [accessed: 30.04.2025].

Matki pingwinów: autentyczność artystyczna i społeczny rezonans

w przedstawianiu rodzicielstwa osób z autyzmem – analiza technik filmowych i wpływu kulturowego

Streszczenie: Autor artykułu podejmuje próbę pogłębionej analizy polskiego serialu Mat- ki pingwinów, którego premiera odbyła się w 2024 roku na platformie Netflix. Produkcja porusza temat wychowania dzieci ze spektrum autyzmu oraz wyzwań, jakie stoją przed ich rodzicami. To realistyczne i pełne empatii przedstawienie dynamiki rodziny, pre- sji społecznej i rozwoju osobistego. W artykule wskazano, że twórcy serialu skutecznie wykorzystali specyficzne techniki filmowe, autentyczną scenografię, niuanse w grze aktorskiej oraz starannie skonstruowany scenariusz, by osiągnąć wysoki poziom auten- tyczności artystycznej. Serial wywołał szeroką reakcję w społeczeństwie i przyczynił się do podjęcia dyskusji na temat reprezentacji niepełnosprawności oraz etyki narracji. Klu- czowe analizowane elementy obejmują: techniki filmowe inspirowane cinéma verité, od- zwierciedlenie wielowymiarowych realiów w scenariuszu, pełne emocji kreacje aktorskie, wpływ kulturowy serialu, widoczny w odbiorze przez publiczność. Łącząc doskonałość artystyczną ze znaczeniem społecznym, Matki pingwinów stanowią zarówno poruszający dramat, jak i istotny głos w globalnej dyskusji na temat inkluzji, reprezentacji i etycznych aspektów przedstawiania grup wrażliwych.

Słowa kluczowe: polski serial telewizyjny, reprezentacja autyzmu, rodzicielstwo osób wychowujących dzieci ze specjalnymi potrzebami, narracja dokumentalna, etyka narracji

Nota autorska

Student kierunku kulturoznawstwo na Akademii Humanistyczno-Ekonomicznej w Ło- dzi. Pełnił funkcję szefa zarządu w Tech NGO Foundation i pracował jako analityk kon- figuracji IT w AON. Jego zainteresowania badawcze koncentrują się na kulturze inter- netowej, przestrzeniach LGBTQ+ w Europie Środkowo-Wschodniej i performatywności społecznej w środowiskach technologicznych. Posiada doświadczenie metodologiczne w prowadzeniu badań z wykorzystaniem metod mieszanych, opartych m.in. na EBSCO, ResearchGate i Google Scholar. Do jego istotnych osiągnięć należą wystąpienia konferen- cyjne, m.in.: referat Doświadczenie studiowania online… (Konferencja w Krakowie 2023), poświęcony edukacji cyfrowej, oraz Patologie kultury internetu… (Sympozjum w Łodzi 2024), badający dynamikę społeczności online. W pracy łączy podejście akademicką z praktycznym doświadczeniem zawodowym.

Artur Sendyka

‘Mothers of Penguins’: Artistic authenticity and social resonance in depicting autism parenting – analysis of film techniques