Although for many it will forever remain a grigory from the series “Four Panzer and Dog“, Włodzimierz Press is a character who significantly entered the history of Polish culture – not only the film one. His face is known by older viewers, but the voice recognizes … almost all children. Few people realize that this well -deserved actor also worked for decades also during dubbing of the most popular animations.
It was the role of the tanker Grigory Saakashvili who brought him enormous popularity. The series, which was broadcast in the 1960s, became one of the most important program points of the then television and remains iconic to this day. Press quickly gained the sympathy of viewers – not only thanks to the screen charisma, but also honesty and emotionality, which he brought into his roles.
At that time, it meant one recognition: to be in every Polish home. However, Press did not stop on one form. He treated success as a foundation, not a ceiling.
Although his acting career covers dozens of film and theater roles, his voice activities are equally impressive. Włodzimierz Press is one of the most important voices of Polish dubbing – he voiced, among others Under the Cat of New Year’s Eve from “crazy melodies”, Kermit’s frog with “Muppet Show” and Smurf of the gourmand.
That’s not all – he played with equal commitment in historical figures, like Juliusz Cezar or the heroes of acting films. Children who grew up in the 90s and 2000 are perfectly known to his voice – even if they don’t know who he belongs to. This is a sign of a good voice actor: his presence can be heard, but not sending the character.
Włodzimierz Press was born in Lviv. His youth was marked by the drama of war. The father died and he was separated with his mother. They only found themselves in Siberia. After the war, they returned to Poland together and settled in Krakow. This experience, although tragic, has developed exceptional sensitivity in it. He did not erect his private life, but what he experienced naturally penetrated his roles – this can be seen both in the intensity of his acting and in the selection of projects.
In 1966, on the set of “four armored and dog”, he met his wife Renata – then a costume assistant. They have been together since then. They raised two children: son Grzegorz and daughter Tania. Although he was never a celebrity in the popular sense of the word today, his attitude – modest and at the same time full of passion – won him great respect.
Presses also have roles in films such as “Nikosia Dyzma career”, “there will be no divorces” or “heart rhythm”. He also played in the theater, where he could fully develop his acting possibilities. Regardless of the medium, he always remained faithful to himself and his artistic intuition.
Today, his face can be recognized by older viewers, but his voice is known to children. It is this contrast that makes Włodzimierz Press so unique: an actor from the past who still appeals to the next generations.