
ENFF On Tour in De Balie, Amsterdam: Havel
Havel is a story about one of Europe’s most distinctive personalities as seen through the lenses of award-winning director Slavek Horak. The film brings us a captivating portrait of a Czech hero, dissident of the communist regime, a writer and former Czech president, Vaclav Havel, his evolution as well his role in the revolution.
For the introduction and after the screening, we welcome our special guest, prof. Petr Kopecky, from Leiden University. Read this wonderful review from Variety to warm up.
This screening is organized in partnership with Czech Centre.
Screening: 13th October | 19:30 hours | De Balie | Kleine-Gartmanplantsoen 10, 1017 RR Amsterdam

A captivating portrait of a Czech hero, dissident of the communist regime, a writer and former Czech president, Vaclav Havel, his evolution as well his role in the revolution.
Synopsis
Based on the dramatic life of Vaclav Havel, this biopic follows the national icon between the 1960s and the late 1980s. The narrative revolves around his transformation from careless bohemian artist into human rights activist, dissident and prisoner of the communist regime, climaxing with Havel becoming the leader of Czech Velvet Revolution and president of Czechoslovakia. Featuring strong performances from its entire cast, the film focuses on Havel’s political drive and personal life. His unorthodox relationship with his wife Olga, who serves as his moral mirror and conscience, propels Havel’s growth from young dandy into mature, responsible man as he is put under growing pressure by the totalitarian regime. Despite paying a heavy price for his involvements, he rises from the ashes becoming the first president of the new Czech Republic.
Country: Czech Republic Year: 2020 Length: 104 min Director: Slavek Horak Cinematography: Jan Stastny Editing: Vladimir Barak Cast: Viktor Dvorak, Anna Geislerova, Martin Hofmann, Barbora Seidlova Production: Slavek Horak – TVORBA Films; Ceska televize Subtitles: English Dutch Premiere
Festivals & Awards (selection)
Rome Independent Film Festival, 2020 – Best Film | Sao Paulo International Film Festival, 2020 | Heartland International Film Festival, 2020 | Zagreb Film Festival, 2020 | Czech Lion Awards, 2021 – Best Make-up | Cleveland International Film Festival, 2021