Czech Director Jiří Strach Receives Papal Order for Films and Cultural Contributions
A prestigious honor has been bestowed upon Czech filmmaker Jiří Strach: the Order of the Holy New Year’s Eve, granted by Pope Lion XIV. The director, known for his popular film fairy tales, described being “completely shocked” and nearly collapsing upon receiving the news, calling it the “peak of his life.”
Strach, whose films The Lord’s Angel 1 and The Lord’s Angel 2 have resonated with audiences, learned of the award during the National St. Wenceslas pilgrimage in Stará Boleslav. He recounted being surprised by the presence of prominent figures like Václav Klaus and Jiřina Bohdalová, suspecting a special occasion, but unprepared for the magnitude of the honor.
The papal order, he explained, is not typically given to those under the age of fifty and is generally reserved for individuals with significant merit within the Church. While unsure of the specific reasons for the recognition, Strach believes his films, their underlying message of evangelization, and his decades of work within the Czech cultural landscape were key factors. “Well, I really don’t know myself, but it was probably my movies… and for the evangelization that the films bring,” he stated. He affirmed his Catholic faith and advocacy for the Church and its leaders.
The initiative for the order reportedly originated with the papal nunciatura in Prague, which closely monitors cultural events within the country. Strach expressed gratitude for the support of his wife, Magdalena, who was by his side during the ceremony. He emphasized the symbolic importance of their shared recognition, highlighting the Pope’s support for family and marriage.
The director reflected on the profound significance of the award, stating it transcends national boundaries and represents the will of the Pope towards a global Catholic population of a billion faithful. He jokingly added that no future accolade, not even an Oscar, could compare.
Looking ahead, Strach hinted at the possibility of a third installment in The Lord’s Angel series, stating, “It depends on the Lord God.” He playfully suggested enlisting the help of actor Jirka Bartoška, who previously portrayed God in the films, to “arrange” the project from above.
Beyond entertainment, Strach revealed a deeper intention behind his filmmaking: to pass on the faith, inspired by his grandmother’s influence. He aimed to convey the existence of a “heavenly family” and the guidance of saints through kindness, humor, and tenderness, hoping to connect with the largely atheistic Czech population.
Also honored at the ceremony was Antonín Randa, recognized for his long-standing support of priests facing difficult circumstances through the organization Journey 121.
