Cast
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Ladislav Boháč
as Pavel Kalina / Commentary (voice)
Vladimír Šmeral
as Jeník Kalina
Jiří Plachý
as Rabas
František Vnouček
as Miloš
Gabriel Hart
as Kodeš
Franz Richter
as
František Smolík
as Kalina
Marie Ptáková
as Anna Kalinová
Jarmila Beránková
as Hanička Langrová
Václav Trégl
as Karel Ledvina
Vítězslav Boček
as Zamrazil
Karel Dymák
as Kolja Nikolaj Andrejevič Semjaško
L. H. Struna
as Karpíšek
František Kreuzmann
as Halama
Alois Peterka
as Hořica
Crew
Director
- J. A. Holman
- Jiří Slavíček
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Zborov 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 J. A. Holman 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 1939, 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 Zborov took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 112 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 170 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 102 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 62 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1939, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Zborov shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike All Quiet on the Western Front, which focuses more on action than character development, Zborov subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Aphrodite and The Somme explore similar territory, Zborov stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 6, 1939
- Runtime: 1h 52m
