Švédská zápalka

My overall impression is high at 80%. However, let's be honest, the "magic" in this case is carried by Chekhov's excellent literary source and the strong cast. This play has such a perfectly television-like appearance that if it weren't for a few exterior shots of domestic animals, the viewer might think they were watching a recording of a stage play. What's important are the charming twist and especially the strong, typically sarcastic Chekhov dialogues that get to the heart of the matter and say a lot about backward, drunken, and authoritarian Russia. In terms of acting, the standout is the drunken Rudolf Hrušínský, who delivers his lines with an inimitable charm, and the diligent, ambitious official played by Josef Abrhám. (08/08/2007)