A Prayer for Katerina Horovitzova

This should be one of the peak texts from Arnošt Lustig's workshop. I can't confirm that because I haven't read the book but I have to deny that it is one of the strongest films in Czech cinema, and I consider the comparison with The Cremator confusing. The story, or rather the Nazi play with its victims, is extremely transparent in my view in this story. Not that it explicitly hinders perceiving the brutality of lies and manipulation, but it's simply not what it should be. The climax scene, when Kateřina seizes the weapon, is shamefully unused. Here, I might have played with the situation against the original and emphasized the moment when the victim has the executioner in their power. A lot of drama could have been gained from that. I consider the casting of Lenka Fišerová a mistake. A top-notch character actress should have been engaged here. The presence of the demonic Jiří Adamíra in the role of a high-ranking SS officer is definitely a positive aspect, and the actor once again confirms the well-known rule that negative characters are more actor-friendly. Also worth mentioning is Miloš Nedbal, who portrayed a man who went through hell, and that hell also marked him. I have no problem with three stars, but the film did not bring me to emotional heights in the least. Overall impression: 60%. (01/02/2015)