Every year, Líba has a single birthday wish - to have her entire family together for her celebration. And up until this year, everyone has always made it happen. However, things take a hilarious turn on her latest birthday. Her son Petr has different plans and pretends to be sick in order to spend his birthday with his secret boyfriend, Karel, who coincidentally shares the same birthdate. Karel has been a well-kept secret from the rest of the family. But Líba is determined not to let go of her birthday celebration so easily. She decides to surprise Petr by moving the entire family to his place. Little does Petr know that this unexpected visit will lead to a rapid series of improvisations, transforming Karel into a work colleague and Petr's sister Veronika into his girlfriend. What follows is a rollercoaster ride that Petr could have never predicted.
In its simplicity lies the charm, and "Wishes for Líba" successfully captures that essence. This film doesn't aim to compete for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars; instead, it focuses on entertaining the audience in the Czech heartland, and it certainly succeeds. At least that was the case for me. Local reviews may be strict, but let's be honest, even if just for moments, it's hard not to be entertained by this film. Especially now, with the media bombarding us with news of wars, presidential elections, rising COVID cases in China, and more, this film provides a pleasant escape.
I must admit that the film loses some of its pace and humor as it progresses, and if it were any longer, it might have completely lost its charm. However, the initial portions of the movie are filled with laughter and surprises that keep you engaged. The quick-witted improvisations and the escalating chaos create a delightfully funny experience. The talented cast brings the characters to life, adding depth and authenticity to their performances.
If you're looking for a light-hearted comedy that will make you laugh and momentarily forget about the world's troubles, "Wishes for Líba" is the perfect choice. You can now own this delightful film on DVD, available exclusively at CzechMovie.com. Immerse yourself in the laughter, enjoy the twists and turns, and embark on this unforgettable journey with the whole family. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the joy and surprises that "Prani k narozeninam" has to offer.
