Films 2025
WAVES / Vlny
2024 CZ, SK | Drama / History / Thriller | 131 min
Awards: Blue Cube for Outstanding Artistic Performance / Právo Audience Award Winner (IFFKV), Best Feature Film Audience Award Winner (CinEast), Satellite Award (IPA)
Festivals: Karlovy Vary IFF
The award-winning WAVES tells the gripping and never-before-published story set in the days leading up to the Russian led invasion of Czechoslovakia. Viewers are immersed in the high-stakes world of the International Editorial Desk of Czechoslovak Radio, staffed by bold journalists and public figures. Among them is Tomáš, a young man who reluctantly stepped into his brother's dream job, prioritising survival over personal ambition.
As tensions rise, the Secret Service begins targeting the editorial team, tightening its grip on the newsroom. When a crucial recording is uncovered - one with the potential to shift the course of history - Tomáš finds himself at a crossroads. Should he stand alongside the brave journalists risking everything for freedom or protect his family’s name and ensure his own safety? Blending political intrigue with personal sacrifice, Waves is a gripping exploration of courage, loyalty and the moral complexities of living under oppression.
SHORT FILM: The Hedgehog / Ježek | 2023 CZ | Animation | 1:32 min | Dir: Daniela Hýbnerová
6:30 PM ENJOY A FREE BECHEROVKA COCKTAIL ON ARRIVAL
WED 2 April 7:00PM
DIRECTOR Jiří Mádl
LANGUAGE Czech | English Subtitles
AGE 15+
CAST Vojtěch Vodochodský
Ondřej Stupka
Tatiana Pauhofová
Stanislav Majer
Vojtěch Kotek
Marika Soposká
THE DORMANT ACCOUNT / Spiaci účet
2024 SK, CZ | Drama | 110 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
Awards: Golden Camera, MFF Art Film Košice
Festivals: MFF Art Film Košice
‘The Dormant Account‘, tells the compelling story of Tomáš and Karolína, a young married couple grappling with financial difficulties, who inherit a valuable painting from their family. What initially seems like a stroke of good fortune quickly becomes a doorway to uncovering dark secrets from their ancestors’ past.
As the couple explores the mysterious legacy of the painting, they discover it harbours a troubling family secret meant to remain forgotten forever. The temptation to resolve their financial struggles clashes with the moral burden of the guilt they have inherited. Tomáš and Karolína must navigate the complexities of their discovery, questioning their values, their family’s history and the true cost of their inheritance.
With themes of historical memory, moral accountability and the complexities of heritage, The Dormant Account explores how the shadows of the past continue to shape the present. As past and present collide, the couple faces a profound choice: confront the troubling truths they’ve unearthed or conceal them forever.
THU 3 April 7PM
DIRECTOR Miloslav Luther
LANGUAGE Slovak, Czech, German | English Subtitles
AGE 15+
CAST Richard Autner
Dominika Morávková
Éva Bandor
Réka Derzsi
Iva Janžurová,
Marián Labuda
HER DRUNKEN DIARY / Zápisník alkoholičky
2024 CZ | Psychological Drama | 92 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
Festivals: CinEast FF Luxembourg
‘Her Drunken Diary‘ is a Czech psychological drama directed by Dan Svátek, based on Michaela Duffková's autobiographical book portraying the dramatic story of a young woman struggling with alcohol addiction. The film follows Míša, a young mother who moves with her husband, Ondřej, to his parents' home near Prague. With Ondřej frequently away for work, Míša feels isolated and oppressed by her overbearing in-laws.
As Míša's reliance on alcohol grows, it begins to dominate her daily life, leaving her increasingly disconnected from those around her. The film captures her internal battle as she oscillates between denial and moments of clarity, ultimately confronting the difficult realities of her choices.
The film authentically portrays the vicious cycle of alcoholism and the arduous journey toward recovery, highlighting personal and societal obstacles. Tereza Ramba delivers a compelling performance as Míša, capturing the character's vulnerability and resilience. The film offers a painful exploration of addiction, family dynamics and the pursuit of redemption.
FRI 4 April 6:30PM
DIRECTOR Dan Svátek
LANGUAGE Czech | English Subtitles
AGE 15+
CAST Tereza Ramba
Miloslav König
Barbora Lukešová
Miroslav Hanuš
Oskar Hes
Martin Finger
THE PROUD PRINCESS / Pyšná princezna
2024 CZ | Fairy Tale / Family / Animation | 84 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
A surprising international hit from the realm of fantasy, The Proud Princess is the animated remake of one of the most popular films in Czechoslovak cinema history, about Krasomila, a childishly vain princess, and her scheming advisors, who want to wed her to a weakling, to be able to keep their power. King Miroslav, a noble and just ruler from a neighbouring kingdom, becomes enamoured with Krasomila's beauty and spirit. Disguising himself as a gardener, he enters her service, introducing her to the simple joys of life and challenging her haughty demeanour.
As they grow closer, Miroslav's genuine kindness begins to break down the walls around her heart. When the advisors' plot is unveiled, the pair embark on an adventure filled with challenges that test their resolve and deepen their bond. Throughout their journey, Krasomila discovers Miroslav's true identity, leading to a transformative realisation about love, humility and personal growth. This animated adaptation of a cherished Czech fairy tale combines vibrant visuals with timeless themes, offering a fresh perspective on a classic narrative.
SAT 5 April 1:30PM
DIRECTOR Radek Beran, David Lisý
LANGUAGE Czech | English Subtitles
AGE G
CAST Anna Fialová (voice of Princess Krasomila)
Marek Lambora (voice of King Miroslav)
Aleš Procházka (voice of Maxim)
WALTZING MATILDA / Tancuj, Matyldo
2023 CZ, SK | Dramedy | 113 min
Awards: Best Narrative Feature Jury Award at the 2024 Santa Fe IFF, Czech Lions
Festivals: Santa Fe IFF, 28th Made in Prague Festival
Waltzing Matilda is a deeply moving dramedy that explores the complexities of familial relationships across three generations. Karel Jaroš,
a 48-year-old debt collector, leads a regimented life, emotionally distant from his 80-year-old mother, Matilda, a former choir singer now battling Alzheimer's disease. Their strained relationship is further complicated by Karel's 18-year-old son, Pavel, who harbors resentment towards his father's profession and past actions. When unforeseen circumstances force the family into closer quarters, their daily lives are filled with a blend of awkward adjustments and revealing moments of tension and unexpected tenderness.
As the family confronts the challenges of Matilda's condition, they are forced to reevaluate their relationships, uncovering deep-seated emotions and forging unexpected connections. This film offers a heartfelt examination of duty, love and the resilience required to navigate life's unforeseen challenges; it is a testament to the strength of familial bonds and the transformative power of compassion in the face of adversity.
SHORT FILM: Humanity / Humanity | 2024 CZ | Animation | 7:45 min | Dir: Tereza Kovandová
SAT 5 April 3:45PM
DIRECTOR Petr Slavík
LANGUAGE Czech, Slovak| English Subtitles
AGE 12+
CAST Karel Roden
Regina Rázlová
Antonio Šoposki
Zuzana Kanócz
Simona Postlerová
Natálie Hejlová
NOBODY LIKES ME / Nikdo mě nemá rád
2024 CZ, SK, FR | Drama / Romance | 105 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
Festivals: 28th Tallinn Black Nights FF
‘Nobody Likes Me‘ tells the story of Sára, a 29-year-old woman who finds herself grappling with loneliness and societal expectations. Working as an assistant at the army headquarters in Prague, Sára is surrounded by young, attractive men yet remains single and childless, a fact constantly highlighted by her authoritarian mother. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she falls for a mysterious man whose presence challenges her preconceived notions about love and relationships.
As Sára navigates the complexities of this newfound romance, she confronts her feelings of inadequacy and the pressures imposed by those around her. With its unique blend of drama and romance, Nobody Likes Me captures the essence of modern relationships while highlighting the emotional turmoil that comes with seeking acceptance. The film explores themes of identity, desire and the struggle for personal fulfilment in a world that often prioritizes conformity over individuality.
SAT 5 April 6:30PM
DIRECTOR Petr Kazda, Tomáš Weinreb
LANGUAGE Czech, Slovak| English Subtitles
AGE 15+
CAST Rebeka Poláková
Mantas Zemleckas
Barbora Bobuľová
Miroslav Hanuš
Martin Finger
Hana Vágnerová
MIKI / Miki
2024 SK, CZ | Thriller | 106 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
Festivals: 26th Málaga Film Festival
‘Miki‘ is a gripping drama inspired by the true story of notorious Slovak mob boss Mikuláš Černák. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1990s, the film follows Miki, a former bus driver who returns to his hometown only to find it transformed by the rapid changes of post-communist Slovakia. As opportunities for organized crime emerge amidst the chaos, Miki discovers his latent abilities and ambition, leading him to build one of the most feared mafia groups in the country.
The narrative delves deeply into themes of power, morality and the dark allure of success in a society grappling with its identity and values. As Miki rises through the ranks, he faces moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices that test his loyalties and reshape his understanding of family and friendship. With a backdrop of societal upheaval and shifting allegiances, "Miki" offers a thought-provoking exploration of how desperation can drive individuals to embrace a life of crime, all while raising poignant questions about justice, accountability and the cost of ambition in an ever-changing world.
SAT 5 April 9PM
DIRECTOR Jakub Kroner
LANGUAGE Slovak | English Subtitles
AGE 15+
CAST Milan Ondrík
Dušan Cinkota
Gregor Hološka
Anna Javorková
Rebeka Poláková
Matěj Hádek
BEHIND THE CURTAIN OF HIGH MOUNTAINS / Za oponou velehor 2025 SK, CZ | Documentary| 97 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
‘Behind the Curtain of High Mountains‘ is a poignant documentary that chronicles the life and legacy of Dina Štěrbová, a trailblazing Czech climber and the first woman to conquer the Himalayan Cho Oyu in 1984. In an era when women mountaineers were an anomaly, Dina's ascent of the 8,000-metre peak shattered conventions and redefined the limits of human endurance. Her journey began at 14, scaling Gerlach Peak in secret, unable to answer her mother’s question: “Why climb mountains?” Years later, she penned her answer in Cho Oyu, Turquoise Mountain: “Mountains are the conquest of the meaningless—beautiful, treacherous and unyielding, designed for those who come unbidden.” Now, at 81, Dina bids a heartfelt farewell to the peaks, embarking on a humanitarian mission to Pakistan. Through her reflections, the film explores the allure of mountains, the resilience of the human spirit and the profound truths found on icy cliffs where life’s marathon takes an existential turn.
SUN 6 April 1:00PM
DIRECTORS Hana Pinkavová
LANGUAGE Czech | English Subtitles
AGE 12+
CAST Dina Štěrbová
THE CHAMBERMAID / Slúžka
2022 SK, CZ | Drama / History / Romance | 110 min
Awards: Sun in a Net Awards Best Leading Actress / Best Costume Design / Best Art Direction Winner
Festivals: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival
‘The Chambermaid‘ is a poignant historical drama set in the early 20th century. The film follows the life of a young chambermaid Anka who works in a grand estate, where she encounters Resi, the daughter of the wealthy family that owns the property. As their paths cross, a deep emotional connection develops, challenging societal norms and expectations of the time. The narrative intricately explores themes of class disparity, desire and the struggle for personal freedom, as the girls navigate their feelings amidst an oppressive environment.
The bond they share becomes a sanctuary, offering a fleeting glimpse of a world where their connection transcends boundaries. With rich cinematography and compelling performances, The Chambermaid captures the essence of youthful passion while shedding light on the constraints imposed by society, making it a resonant tale of love and resilience against the odds.
>Q&A with actress Vica Kerekes after film screening
SUN 6 April 3:15PM
DIRECTOR Mariana Čengel Solčanská
LANGUAGE Czech, Slovak, German, Hungarian | English Subtitles
AGE 15+
CAST Dana Droppová
Radka Caldová
Zuzana Mauréry
Vica Kerekes
Anna Geislerová
Marko Igonda
STATE OF EMERGENCY / Výjimečný stav
2024 CZ | Farce / Comedy | 111 min
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE
’State of Emergency’ is a sharp comedy that tackles the pressing issue of fake news in today's society. The film centres on a group of unlikely heroes who find themselves caught in a chaotic situation when a fabricated emergency alert goes viral, leading to widespread panic and confusion. As the characters navigate the absurd consequences of misinformation, they must confront their own beliefs and biases while attempting to restore order.
The narrative cleverly intertwines humour with social commentary, highlighting the impact of sensationalism and the importance of critical thinking in an age dominated by digital media. With its engaging plot and witty dialogue, State of Emergency not only entertains but also provokes thought about the responsibilities of both media consumers and creators. As the characters grapple with the fallout from their actions, the film ultimately delivers a poignant message about truth, trust and the power of communication in our interconnected world.
SHORT FILM: Marie / Marie | 2024 CZ | Animation | 3:32 min | Dir: Jan B. Piskač
SUN 6 April 6:30PM
DIRECTOR Jan Hřebejk
LANGUAGE Czech | English Subtitles
AGE 12+
CAST Ondřej Vetchý
Tatiana Dyková
Eslam Al-Awadi
Kateřina Brožová
Jordan Haj
Jiří Havelka
Jan Hrušínský