Na samote u lesa (1976) User Reviews

Timeless humour

[BlueGreen · 10/10 · 22 July 2006]

...or is it?

The story line is very simple: a 1970s Czech city family goes to the countryside for a short holiday... Adventures ensue. But this brilliant comedy definitely is one of those films that rely heavily on the viewer's understanding of the wider cultural context - and, of course, on magnificently humorous dialogues and interaction. (If a comparison must be found, I'd say it is much more reminiscent of Tati than of "National Lampoon", for example.)

It is an unforgettably hilarious yet gentle film. But without the help of a very good translator - and preferably at least a basic understanding of the time and space where the action takes place - I fear that much (not all, but much) of its intelligent humour will be lost.

I must say that this movie makes me laugh whenever I see it.

[pavkan · 15 May 2000]

Where to start with my commentary. All actors are perfect. When you see Zdenek Sverak who is a brilliant screenwriter (much better screenwriter than an actor) and compare him to the excellent work of Daniela Kolarova and Josef Kemr you nearly lose the differences between the professional actors and amateur actors. But the most interesting, thrilling thing about this film are its jokes. We can begin before the titles come when son asks his father if an earthworm is a snake. The joyful conversation starts you up and it continues...