Film roku 2025: Sbormistr a viet-český debut | Aktuálně.cz
The Czech film industry celebrated its achievements at the Czech Film Critics’ Awards, with Sbormistr (The Choir Master) taking the top prize for Best Film. The awards, which saw a close vote, also recognized Otec (Father) and Letní škola, 2001 (Summer School, 2001) with two awards each. The evening also honored achievements in documentary, animation, and television series.
A Tightly Contested Awards Season
Sbormistr, produced by Jiří Konečný and Ivan Ostrochovský and directed by Ondřej Provazník, focuses on a young girl’s experience within a prestigious choir and explores themes of manipulation and sexual abuse. Konečný stated the film was created “to draw attention to the situation of victims, to dedicate the film to them as a kind of tribute.” The performance of the lead actress, Falbrová, was described by the jury as “disarming.”
Recognition for Diverse Filmmaking
Letní škola, 2001 earned its creator, Dužan Duong, awards for both Best Screenplay – shared with Jan Smutný and Lukáš Kokeš – and Discovery of the Year. Tomáš Hlaváček’s documentary, Dům bez východu (House Without Exit), was named Best Documentary, examining the consequences of predatory housing practices. Katarína Gramatová’s drama, Nahoře nebe, v dolině já (Up Above the Sky, Down in the Valley), received praise for the cinematography of Tomáš Kotas.
Beyond Film: Television and Animation Honored
The Oneplay platform’s crime miniseries, Studna (The Well), won in the “Beyond Cinema” category. The series draws inspiration from a real-life family tragedy in Vonoklas and an episode of the classic Czech television series 30 případů majora Zemana (30 Cases of Major Zeman). The animated short film I Died in Irpin, documenting the early days of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, also received an award.
Legal Challenges for Sbormistr
Sbormistr is currently facing a lawsuit from one of the victims of Bohumil Kulínský, who recognized herself in the film due to the use of a shared first name. Producers are attempting to reach a settlement, but the victim has reportedly demanded 10 million Czech crowns in damages and a ban on the film’s television broadcast. Director Provazník has expressed regret that the film caused psychological distress to some victims, and Falbrová acknowledged the courage of those who contacted her.
The awards ceremony featured presenters including former athletes Ludmila Formanová, Vavřinec Hradilek, and Dominik Hašek, and was hosted by YouTuber Jan Špaček.
Frequently Asked Questions
What film won Best Film at the Czech Film Critics’ Awards?
Sbormistr, produced by Jiří Konečný and Ivan Ostrochovský and directed by Ondřej Provazník, won Best Film.
Which films received multiple awards?
Sbormistr, Otec, and Letní škola, 2001 each received two awards.
What is Sbormistr about?
Sbormistr tells the story of a young girl navigating a prestigious choir led by an admired man, and explores themes of manipulation and sexual abuse.
How do artistic interpretations of real-life events balance the need for creative expression with the potential impact on those directly affected?