Six months after Soviet block tanks crushed the Prague Spring (popular uprising against Stalinism), the occupation of Czechoslovakia seems without prospect. History student Jan Palach torches himself...
Eight months after Jan's death, the family and stubborn lawyer Dagmar still refuse to face reality. The Communist authorities have found ways to blackmail or eliminate anyone standing in the way of ...
Five weeks later, the next student tries to become torch number two, but reaches neither the public nor death. The authorities manage to prevent press reports on a link, which would undermine the ...
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Title: Horící ker (2013– )
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Based on real characters and events, this drama focuses on the personal sacrifice of a Prague history student, Jan Palach, who set himself on fire in protest against the Soviet occupation of Czechoslovakia in 1969. Dagmar Buresová, a young female lawyer, became part of his legacy by defending Jan's family in a trial against the communist government, a regime which tried to dishonor Palach's sacrifice, a heroic action for the freedom of Czechoslovakia. Written by HBO Europe
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A powerful story about the events surrounding the self-immolation of a Czech student Jan Palach. He protested against the invasion of Czechoslovakia by setting himself on fire and his single act became a timeless rallying symbol against the Soviet invasion and the subsequent oppression by the communist establishment.
The film is exquisite in how it combines historic events, inner struggles of the main characters, courtroom drama, investigative techniques and deep divisions in the society. Realistic acting and the portrayal of Prague and Czech villages, domestic and institutional scenes deserve much of the credit for keeping you interested through the three main stories interwoven with many characters.
Bravery and activism are contrasted with lethargy, deceit and self-preserving acts of betrayal that each citizen faced in their own way. The choices that the characters had to make had implications on their families, colleagues and on their conscience. The young lawyer who makes a decision for a moral stand that will affect the well being of her family. The brave students who look for ways to honour Palach's sacrifice at a great risk to themselves. The policeman who enforces the will of the regime while struggling with his own integrity until he can no longer take it and defects. The journalist, the nurse, the teacher and many others who face such pressure to side with the regime that they choose a betrayal over telling the truth.
All the elements of this movie work well together - the dialog, acting, screen writing and cinematography.
A history lesson well worth the 4+ hours of running time of this 3-part movie.