Princezna stokrát nudně: Recenze a hodnocení české pohádky

A new Czech fairytale, Princezna stokrát jinak (Princess a Hundred Times Different), recently premiered in cinemas, presenting a modern take on the classic fairytale genre. The film centres on Princess Stella, who experiences a peculiar affliction: each morning she awakens in a different form – sometimes as an infant, a man, or a significantly different woman.

A Tale of Transformations and Rivalry

The predicament isn’t unique to Princess Stella of the Apple Kingdom. Prince Ukrut of the neighboring Pear Kingdom suffers from the same mysterious transformations. Adding to the tension, Prince Ukrut harbors a longstanding grudge against Stella, having been defeated by her in a childhood fencing match. A knightly tournament, with the princess’s hand in marriage as the prize, becomes a focal point, as a wedding is believed to potentially break the curse.

A Complicated Path to Romance

A somewhat accidental participant, a ferryman and smuggler named Johan, unexpectedly wins the tournament and claims Princess Stella’s hand. While Stella initially protests, her objections are disregarded, setting the stage for a complex and humorous plot. The film features Ema Klangová Businská as Princess Stella and Filip Březina as Johan.

Did You Know? The film features a cast including Martin Stránský, Ján Koleník, Patricie Solaříková, Zuzana Fialová, Tomáš Weber, Martin Myšička, and Martina Preissová.

A Blend of Lightness and Darkness

Unlike many post-revolution Czech fairytales, Princezna stokrát jinak attempts a darker tone, introducing elements like Prince Ukrut’s unsettling agreement with imprisoned furies involving “human flesh.” However, the film’s nearly two-hour runtime is filled with detours, relying heavily on the actors’ chemistry to maintain engagement, as the script, penned by debut writers Tomáš Belko and Tomáš Krejčí, doesn’t fully support the narrative.

Visual Themes and Unfulfilled Potential

The film visually distinguishes the two kingdoms – the Apple Kingdom is abundant with apples, while the Pear Kingdom is dominated by pears, extending to the food served in taverns. However, the central concept of the transformations feels underutilized, serving more as occasional comedic relief than an integral part of the plot.

Expert Insight: The film’s attempt to blend darker themes with comedic elements and a fairytale structure represents a potential shift in Czech cinema, though its success hinges on fully developing its core concepts and narrative threads.

A Question of Genre Evolution

Director Miloslav Šmídmajer, returning to the fairytale genre after 17 years, previously directed Peklo s princeznou (Hell with the Princess). While Princezna stokrát jinak aims for a more modern approach, it raises questions about the direction of the Czech fairytale genre in cinema. The film doesn’t quite reach the level of playful variations seen in films like Shrek or even classic pre-revolution Czech television fairytales.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central premise of Princezna stokrát jinak?

The film revolves around Princess Stella, who wakes up each day in a different form, and Prince Ukrut, who shares the same affliction. Their story unfolds amidst a rivalry and a quest to break the curse.

Who directed Princezna stokrát jinak?

Miloslav Šmídmajer directed Princezna stokrát jinak, marking his return to the fairytale genre after 17 years.

How long is the film?

Princezna stokrát jinak has a runtime of approximately 120 minutes.

With its blend of humor, fantasy, and a touch of darkness, will Princezna stokrát jinak resonate with audiences and spark a renewed interest in Czech fairytale cinema?