A Beloved Fairy Tale Faces Scrutiny in Czech Republic
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A classic Czech film, endlessly replayed during the holidays, is sparking debate: is it a heartwarming story, or a subtle piece of socialist propaganda?
- Released in 1955, “Once Upon a King…” drew nearly six million viewers in Czechoslovakia.
- The film stars Jan Werich and Vlasta Burian,a pairing that proved immensely popular.
- Critics argue the film subtly promotes socialist ideals through its portrayal of class dynamics.
- Despite criticism, the film remains a cherished part of Czech culture for many.
It’s a fairy tale quoted in pubs and at family dinners across the Czech Republic. A movie that reliably airs on television every year,especially during Christmas.Yet, a contingent of critics contend that it’s an embarrassing ideological misstep, a socialist textbook disguised as a whimsical story. The question arises: how can a work so deeply ingrained in the national consciousness simultaneously be labeled an attempt at socialist education? And what if those critics are right, and a nation simply didn’t want to acknowledge it?
A Classic or Kitsch That Has Already Run Its Bell?
This situation isn’t unique. Consider crime series: you might be captivated while others dismiss it as the “worst scenario in recent years.” Still,you continue watching,finding enjoyment and perhaps deeper meaning than the critics suggest. The same dynamic applies to beloved fairy tales. You can wade through countless analyses dissecting ideological undercurrents, but if a film sparked joy in childhood and now evokes cherished memories, ideology often takes a backseat.
werich and Burian Together for the First and Last Time
The film debuted in cinemas in February 1955, quickly becoming a sensation. Almost six million viewers flocked to theaters throughout Czechoslovakia. Jan Werich starred as the king, with Vlasta Burian playing his mentor, a casting combination that drew massive audiences. This marked the only joint project for these two icons of Czech comedy.
Werich collaborated on the film’s preparation with Jiří Brdečka and director Bořivoj Zeman. Originally, František Smolík was considered for the lead role, but after the success of “The Emperor’s Baker and The Baker’s emperor” in 1951, the role went to Werich.
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Princess Maruška was por
Sources: csfd.cz, filmovyprehled.cz, cs.wikipedia.org
