Nejkrásnější herec: Film, který musíte vidět | 20:30 TV tip

Historical dramas set in the Far East are relatively rare in cinema. Filmmakers often favor subjects considered more accessible to audiences than the complex geopolitical landscape of Tibet. However, a bold approach has yielded a film now considered a historical classic.

A Cinematic Journey to 1939

The film transports viewers to 1939, following Austrian skier and mountaineer Heinrich Harrer and his expedition to conquer Nanga Parbat in the Himalayas. Harrer conceals a leg injury, and the journey home becomes perilous after a member of the team falls to their death. Despite his reluctance, a return is inevitable. Upon their descent, the mountaineers are arrested by British soldiers, becoming “enemies” due to the outbreak of war in Europe.

Heinrich escapes the prisoner-of-war camp and finds himself alone, traveling through harsh terrain, resorting to theft and seeking shelter in caves to survive. Eventually, he and another mountaineer embark on a long and arduous journey to Tibet, where they are aided by a local nobleman who provides them with refuge and permission to stay.

An Unexpected Turn

Initially intending to return home, Heinrich’s plans change after an audience with the young Dalai Lama. At the Dalai Lama’s request, he becomes his teacher and a close friend. He remains in Tibet even as the political situation intensifies with China’s claims over the territory. When the Chinese army occupies Tibet, Heinrich attempts to assist with the Dalai Lama’s escape.

A Defining Role for Brad Pitt

Heinrich Harrer is portrayed by Brad Pitt, a role considered one of his most compelling. At the time of the film’s production, Pitt was already a well-known actor, having appeared in iconic films like Seven, Meet Joe Black, and Fight Club. The film showcases his ability to transform and adapt to a character’s evolution, shifting from a self-centered and often unpleasant individual to a humble man contemplating a return to his wife and son.

Behind the Scenes

Seven Years in Tibet was filmed under unusual circumstances. Officially, filming was prohibited in Tibet, but the director sent a small crew to secretly capture approximately 20 minutes of footage, which was included in the final cut. This was not publicly acknowledged for years, and the remainder of the film was shot in Argentina. The film faced political repercussions after its release, being banned in China, and resulting in a travel ban to the country for Brad Pitt and David Thewlis.

The filmmakers chose to downplay certain aspects of Heinrich Harrer’s past, specifically his brief association with Nazism, focusing instead on his time in Tibet and his personal growth. This decision drew criticism but ultimately shaped the film’s transformative tone.

Tonight on Nova Action

The film is now regarded as a classic, earning approximately 80% positive reviews. Despite its challenging subject matter, it is well-executed and offers an authentic story based on real events. Brad Pitt’s performance is particularly noteworthy. Viewers can watch the film today, January 24th, at 20:30 on Nova Action.

Frequently Asked Questions

What year does the film primarily take place in?

The film primarily takes place in 1939.

Who plays Heinrich Harrer?

Heinrich Harrer is played by Brad Pitt.

Was the film shot entirely in Tibet?

No, while some footage was secretly filmed in Tibet, the majority of the film was shot in Argentina.

Considering the film’s historical context and the challenges faced during its production, how do you think the story resonates with audiences today?