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Netflix Releases 'Heweliusz,' a Five-Episode Polish Drama Revisiting the 1993 Jan Heweliusz Ferry Disaster

The series revisits a tragedy defined by disputed probes alongside a 2005 European court finding of investigative failings.

Overview

  • The miniseries premiered on Netflix on November 5, 2025, and spans five episodes directed by Jan Holoubek and written by Kasper Bajon.
  • It is inspired by the real January 1993 sinking of the MS Jan Heweliusz in the Baltic Sea, where 55 of 64 people aboard died during a severe storm.
  • Historical accounts note the ferry’s troubled record, including a 1986 fire and heavy concrete repairs that altered stability.
  • Coverage highlights the 2005 European Court of Human Rights ruling that found the official investigation partial and held the operator responsible, awarding compensation to families.
  • The drama centers on families seeking accountability and includes speculative, unproven storylines about military cargo and possible cover-ups.