Dark Blue World

This romance in the film seems terribly shallow and servile to mainstream cinema, which I think is a pity, because the reality of how war hardships interweave with post-war ones, which are no worse, and even more senseless. It beautifully portrays how heroism is a double-edged sword, and fighting for one's country can mean digging one's own grave. It is terrifying and tragically truthful. (10/05/2015)

It is a pity that Zdeněk Svěrák was unable to write a natural and credible love triangle. Dark Blue World lives up to all aspects except the love storyline... Which is a problem, because the tone of the film relies heavily on it. The more problematic the relationship between men and women sounds, the better the mutual friendships that old Mr. Svěrák simply "has in his hand" sound all the better. The transitions from the English battlefields to the communist prison are also excellent, creating a very bitter and sarcastic touch for the film. Maybe Dark Blue World was too ambitious a project... Although, despite all the negatives, it's still a great film. (24/04/2004)

The intention of screenwriter Zdeněk Svěrák to pay tribute to our airmen in the service of the RAF is very commendable. On the other hand, his calculated touches to the script are not very praiseworthy. "I'll put in the girl’s sad eyes, the Yanks will like that. A little sentimentality doesn't hurt either, they like to cry." When Jan Svěrák accepted the Oscar for Kolya, he promised to bring a little brother to the golden bald man. I'm sure he counted on it, but it didn't happen. In truth, he wouldn't have deserved it for Dark Blue World. He did devote five years of his life to it, an immeasurable effort, but the love story line plays too much on emotions and the scenes from the communist prisoner camp are not very convincing. Despite my reservations, I have to admit that the director made his money go very far. It is a paradox that the tribute to our airmen was not paid for by their native country, but that it was overwhelmingly financed by a company from the country the Czech airmen fought against. (08/05/2003)

My favorite Czech film, which matures in an incredible way. That's why I'm sad that it eventually got labeled as a calculated or unbelievable attempt. Svěrák's life's work, even on the tenth screening, still has a strong impact. Whether it's thanks to the unbeatable performance of the entire male ensemble or the touching and precisely targeted Soukup's music. I will continue to be moved or trembling in the Dark Blue World many more times. (04/02/2006)

After 8 years I finally watched the DVD after many reruns on TV and at the movie theater... and I can definitely say that I love this movie and that it's aging like fine wine. :) There's nothing wrong with it. Period. As an interesting bonus for BBC Narnia fans, Sophie Wilcox appeared as WAAF Jane and that made me very happy too. (17/02/2009)