The period history is exceptionally done. The amount of effort it took to portray the often brutal, calculating undercurrent and intrigue of the time was an excellent work. Visuals and acting is also mostly excellent. I was surprised how enthralled I became watching the very difficult and cruel life they lived. Costumes are excellent. Sets are excellent. Props and carriages and towns are excellently done.
What are a little odd for me are Elsebeths dreams. Even though I now recognize the coloration changes indicating her dreamstate it was sometimes hard to determine when she was dreaming and when not. This may have been intended as she had the same difficulty. The thing that did not belong at all in this movie was a very minor comic relief (yes comic relief) from the 2 monks who for some crazy reason had rollerskates, key wound power shoes and other technology that had no bearing on this movie at all. While the film is Czech and possibly "different" ,whomever had the idea to do this did not belong.
What was done nicely was the wrap up at the end of that Elsebeth was likely framed by the Hapsburgs. That to me is the most believable explanation of what she was accused of. To have killed 650 or even 50 maidens and bathed in their blood while everyone feared Gods wrath at every corner and everyone in the town would have know is a pretty ludicrous idea. It is more likely she was innocent and framed for her wealth and power. Worth watching for any history buff, but be forewarned, it is a long ride.
What are a little odd for me are Elsebeths dreams. Even though I now recognize the coloration changes indicating her dreamstate it was sometimes hard to determine when she was dreaming and when not. This may have been intended as she had the same difficulty. The thing that did not belong at all in this movie was a very minor comic relief (yes comic relief) from the 2 monks who for some crazy reason had rollerskates, key wound power shoes and other technology that had no bearing on this movie at all. While the film is Czech and possibly "different" ,whomever had the idea to do this did not belong.
What was done nicely was the wrap up at the end of that Elsebeth was likely framed by the Hapsburgs. That to me is the most believable explanation of what she was accused of. To have killed 650 or even 50 maidens and bathed in their blood while everyone feared Gods wrath at every corner and everyone in the town would have know is a pretty ludicrous idea. It is more likely she was innocent and framed for her wealth and power. Worth watching for any history buff, but be forewarned, it is a long ride.