Bumerang

A thematically very strong film that, like few others, attempts to come to terms with the oppressive legacy of the 1950s, when one hundred thousand people found themselves in camps and prisons, a burden that mostly marked them for life. The film is dominated by Jiří Schmitzer's convincing performance as the main protagonist. He managed to convey his own experiences from prison, where he ended up after a tragic car accident. His performance is completely authentic and rightfully earned him the Czech Lion award. This drama is interesting for its cast, with several actors appearing in atypical roles (Milan Šteindler, Jiří Krampol, and others), but the average screenplay and direction undermine the overall impression. Overall impression: 75%. (16.06.2006)

One of the best films of the nineties and I didn't see it until 2015. However, I'm almost certain that in 1996 I wouldn't have perceived it in so many contexts as I do now. Jiří Schmitzer delivers a stellar performance and received his most deserved Lion - the scene with smuggled food will remain unforgettable for me. I was intrigued by the appearance of several purely comedic actors in the film (Šteindler, Krampol, Vladyka) and the film does not lose anything because of it, quite the opposite. And I cannot fail to mention the musical component - Beethoven's 7th symphony still plays in my ears. I only had it associated with the film "Ony" before, which is a completely different movie. Bravo, Mr. Bočan and Mr. Stránský. (04.04.2015)