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Old Czech Legends
The world of Czech myths and legends inhabited by puppets is magically brought to life by master animator, JiΕΓ Trnka, in this stunning stop-motion spectacle of folklore.
Director: JirΓ Trnka
Overview
Based on Alois JirΓ‘sekβs collection of legends this stop-motion feature powered by Trnkaβs poetic imagination tells the story of the mythological foundation of the Czech nation. From the stories of Forefather Czech, Princess LibuΕ‘e and PΕemysl The Ploughman, the founders of the Premyslid dynasty, and a womensβ revolt, to a king obsessed with gold and a fierce battle between neighbouring clans, it portrays early Bohemia as the promised land for the Czech people full of magical creatures and ferocious beasts.
Using a cast of βthousandsβ, all hand-carved wooden puppets, and transforming the heroes of national myth and legend into live characters, Trnka conveys the drama and emotions through his figuresβ body language, camera angles and evocative lighting, which take on epic proportions when accompanied by VΓ‘clav Trojanβs orchestral score. A stunning stop-motion spectacle of folklore culminating in a climactic battle against attacking wolves and birds worthy of Kurosawa. Part of the 27th Made in Prague Festival, 3 November β 10 December 2023, organised by the Czech Centre London.
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