Of trench coats and show trials
TK Park is putting on In The Shadow (Ve Stinu) from the Czech Republic as part of the “Contemporary World Film Series” on Saturday at 4pm.
Directed by David Ondricek, who was named one of Variety’s “10 Directors To Watch”, this is a crime thriller, mystery tale, political drama, rolled into one and shot in a film noir style that makes it a riveting, unforgettable film. It won awards at numerous festivals around the world including nine Czech Lion prizes. It was the country’s Oscar nominee in 2012.
The story centres around the infamous “show-trials” that condemned many innocent people to death, especially Jews, during the Communist era in Czechoslovakia. It shows one man’s fight against injustice and is dedicated to the victims of the show-trials and all of the unknown heroes who fought against injustice. Set in the 1950s, the film opens with a robbery presented with darkened lighting, shadowy figures, and men in hats and trench coats. At the centre of the action is Haki, the chief investigator of the robbery. He slowly realises that he’s just a small keg in the wheel, and there are much bigger forces at play.
Haki has to deal with the Secret Service, his political bosses, and also a new German inspector. But he relentlessly pursues his mission, and is forced to spend less and less time with his lovely wife and child. The film’s last scene is symptomatic of the time and the system.
The film stars one of the most revered actors of the country — the brilliant Ivan Trojan in the lead role and well-known actor Sebastian Koch as the German agent, who is best remembered for his role in the Oscar-winning The Lives Of Others.
The screening is supported by the Embassy of the Czech Republic, whose ambassador HE Marek Libricky will introduce the film. Snacks and drinks will be served after the screening.
It comes with English subtitles. TK Park is on the 8th floor, Zone D of CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Road. Entry fee is 20 baht. Seats are limited.
To register, visit goo.gl/ forms/7tfI6n4ceB3INzUX2.