Movie Review: Autumn Spring

Story: Life ain't worth livin' if all you think about is dyin' is the overall theme of this charming Czech film by director Vladimir Michalek.

Pensioner Fanda Hana and his pal, Ed, spend their days wandering around Prague, playing practical jokes, role playing as people they are not and generally causing just a little bit of trouble. With hearts full of good spirits and ocassionally breaking a few rules these two attempt to outrun the Grim Reaper by enjoying themselves as people a lot younger are wont to do. Once we, the audience, are part of their game, it is lots of fun to watch them engage in these usually harmless pranks.

Fanda's wife spends her days worrying about their preparation for death, including their funerals, death announcements and plots. These two are quite an opposite pair after 44 years of marriage.

This is a black comedy that will most likely appeal to people who are closer to meeting the Grim Reaper than those who are not. The film is worth your time if only to see some great acting. When you leave the theater I suggest you break a rule or two and create a bit of excitement in your own life.

Acting: Vladimir Brodski as Fanda was simply charming. Sadly, he was quite ill during the making of this film and took his own life shortly after it was completed. All three main characters (Stanislav Zindulka and Stella Zazvorkova) have known each other for over fifty years and their terrific chemistry shines throughout.

Predilection: None.

Critters: Three beautiful dogs.

Food: Birthday cake, poppies and other kitchen fixings.

Soundtrack: Delightful.

Opening Titles: Simple.

Theater Audience: More folks than I had expected. All seemed to be enjoying themselves. The guy behind me laughed at exactly the same stuff that I did.

Predictability Level: High ( but so what?)

Oscar Worthy: No.

Nit Picking: No nits to pick.

Big Screen or Rental: Either.

Length: 95 minutes

LOBO HOWLS: 7