Occupation

Czechs as hostages of an armed, unpredictable drunkard. During that collective period. Our ability to adapt, regardless of how far or close the mire is, and to still smile when our pants are falling down, has another monument. Kill the Dandies! is perfect. It’s a pity, though, that the content didn’t also lock itself away in that psychedelic garage built after 1968, from which unconvincing caricatures (Brousek's comrade boss) and exaggerated allegorical elements tangled in red Lynch curtains emerge. (06/19/2023)

Czech films of 2021 make me happy. Mistakes and Occupation brought a breath of fresh air in the European format. Absolutely different themes, genres, concepts, but they are connected by one thing - they come with something new and with cast that does not irritate us by seeing them in every film, series, commercial, campaign or on the cover of every magazine. Occupation in addition represents a debut, such a debut deserves a standing ovation, hats off and endless applause. Perfect idea, script, dialogues, monologues, music, everything clicks and works as it should. (02/03/2022)

I have somewhat mixed feelings about Occupation. The beginning didn't impress me much, but the second half was better and much more interesting. The plot built up in tension as the finale approached, aided by great performances from most of the cast, especially Martin Pechlát, Otakar Brousek Jr. and Tomáš Jeřábek. It's definitely not your everyday movie, but it seems to me that it rather encourages violence. He could probably stir up negative passions in society too. And I find that aspect quite objectionable. (65%) (03/28/2022)

When I was preparing for this film on Wednesday, I had no idea that it would be so relevant. I certainly didn't expect to be so satisfied with a Czech film for the second time in a very short period. However, this movie provided such a perfect insight into Czech nature that I couldn't help but enjoy it. The creators managed to achieve a perfect combination of sad comedy and drama, all complemented by a perfect period atmosphere. As a result, it was a delightful treat for me. The actors were also outstanding and delivered fantastic performances, so I could be proud of Czech film for the second time this week. I rarely have this feeling, but as you can see, I don't have to fall into depression just yet :-) I'm glad that the truth about clothes making the man was confirmed again because Petr Kraus (Pavel Neškudla) perfectly embodied his role, and Antonín (Tomáš Jeřábek) was helped by his brown shirt to deliver a great performance. It's hard to say if even Julius Fučík could resist them. Well, if Mistakes and Occupation are a sign of better times for Czech film production, I will be filled with joy. However, my enthusiasm is strongly hindered by the fact that I am a realist, so I suspect that unpleasant experiences await me in the future. Nevertheless, I wish myself, other viewers, and especially Czech creators good luck. / Lesson: If you feel injustice from the government, become a resistor. (02/25/2022)