I consider this to be my favourite movie of all time, and everyone I've shown it to has absolutely loved it.
Director Jan Hřebejk certainly deserves his reputation as a great storyteller. The tale is logically developed right until the end, and I enjoyed the clever subtle moments. The humour and writing in general have a very distinctly Czech flavour: witty and sharp. It makes for a very engaging script.
The casting and acting were also excellent. Each actor had the perfect personality for his/her character. Polívka as the slightly goofy but level-headed Josef; Sisková as his wife who wants only the best for everyone no matter what the risk; and Dusek as the pesky but "not quite bad guy" Horst - great performances which complemented each other well.
My only (slight) gripe would be the use of jerky camera work during the tense moments, but that is most easily overlooked in such an amazing film.
Tears, laughter and a message of hope all in one package. Watch this movie - you really won't regret it, and you may even feel compelled to watch it 5+ times like I have!
Director Jan Hřebejk certainly deserves his reputation as a great storyteller. The tale is logically developed right until the end, and I enjoyed the clever subtle moments. The humour and writing in general have a very distinctly Czech flavour: witty and sharp. It makes for a very engaging script.
The casting and acting were also excellent. Each actor had the perfect personality for his/her character. Polívka as the slightly goofy but level-headed Josef; Sisková as his wife who wants only the best for everyone no matter what the risk; and Dusek as the pesky but "not quite bad guy" Horst - great performances which complemented each other well.
My only (slight) gripe would be the use of jerky camera work during the tense moments, but that is most easily overlooked in such an amazing film.
Tears, laughter and a message of hope all in one package. Watch this movie - you really won't regret it, and you may even feel compelled to watch it 5+ times like I have!