Cast
View AllJan Macháček
as Honza (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Zbyněk Petráček
as Piotr (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Viktor Stoilov
as Chuda (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
David Kopelent
as Frodek (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Lucie Křížková
as Hedvika (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Petr Kavan
as Guru (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Alex Marculiewicz
as Soňa (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Tomáš Kafka
as Hrůzek (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Miroslav Pokorný
as Prošek (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Ladislav Šinkmajer
as Bohemian (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Miroslav Mužík
as Haďas (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Richard Němčok
as Dunajovský (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Ludvík Hradilek
as Photographer (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Petr Dodal
as Malina (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Jana Michálková
as Wife (segment "Karty jsou rozdaný...")
Crew
Director
- Vladimír Michálek
- Martin Šulík
- Artemio Benki
- Michaela Pavlátová
Producer
- Artemio Benki
- Joël Farges
- Zdeněk Polák
- Anne Lordon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Prague Stories examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Vladimír Michálek brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Prague Stories took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The costume department created over 307 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Prague Stories shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Strange Days, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Prague Stories subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Desert Hearts and Beyond Silence explore similar territory, Prague Stories stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 29, 1999
