The film is a thought-provoking political allegory, posing questions we think we know the answers to, but really don’t. It’s the old story: How human beings willfully adapt to systems of control, allowing totalitarian leaders and governments to thrive. The film is just as relevant today as in 1966.
A group of middle class people are subjected to physical control and social pressure. The oppressors' superficial phrases insist on happiness and harmony, all the while posing a threat: Submit to our rules or be punished. This paradox is paralleled by the surroundings: A peaceful forest populated by singing birds becoming a crime scene of social control, manipulation and violence exerted by a nasty inquisitor (Jan Klusák) and his gangsters. This feeling of danger lurking underneath every verbal exchange creates an ominous tension.
As the chilling ending (echoing the hunting dogs in Diamonds of the Night) dawns upon you, it’s clear that Němec and Krumbachová have made a truly important and timeless work of art.
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Movie comment on O slavnosti a hostech
Baron von Merkens
The film is a thought-provoking political allegory, posing questions we think we know the answers to, but really don’t. It’s the old story: How human beings willfully adapt to systems of control, allowing totalitarian leaders and governments to thrive. The film is just as relevant today as in 1966.A group of middle class people are subjected to physical control and social pressure. The oppressors' superficial phrases insist on happiness and harmony, all the while posing a threat: Submit to our rules or be punished. This paradox is paralleled by the surroundings: A peaceful forest populated by singing birds becoming a crime scene of social control, manipulation and violence exerted by a nasty inquisitor (Jan Klusák) and his gangsters. This feeling of danger lurking underneath every verbal exchange creates an ominous tension.
As the chilling ending (echoing the hunting dogs in Diamonds of the Night) dawns upon you, it’s clear that Němec and Krumbachová have made a truly important and timeless work of art.
Movie comment on Dis - en historie om kjærlighet
Baron von Merkens
"Jeg visste at jo lenger jeg ventet på ham, desto fortere ville han komme" - UnaToplist comment on Maristuveien filmklubb – Potensielle filmmåltider
Baron von Merkens
Angst essen Seele aufFar From Heaven
Enemy
Belle du jour
Jeune et jolie