The Rebels

Filip Renč capitalized on his extensive experience in shooting commercials and especially music videos. Technically, it is a well-executed film where the musical aspect, based on proven melodies and lyrics, truly works and clearly overshadows the flat and unconvincing story. As a depiction of a certain era (the August occupation), The Rebels does not hold up, but as a purely light-hearted affair, it is acceptable, thanks in part to the attractive Zuzana Norisová. Overall impression: 45%. (27/05/2007)

When I saw Rebels for the first time in puberty, it seemed cute, excellently made, with only one flaw – excessive naivety. It fascinates me that everything remains the same even with a ten-year gap. Zuzana Norisová charmed me back then, and the soundtrack will never age. Filip Renč's achievement was unique, and in his case, even unbeatable. (27/05/2007)

After ten years we get a mature retro musical with compact visuals, light exaggeration, and a bitter note at the end. The film is elevated by Tomáš Hanák and his private restaurateur. Less would be more, of course, and so far, there is no better option from the collection of films on the theme of the summer of 1968. Five of the six new young people succeeded, which is a good record. (17/02/2009)