The beloved Czech fairy tale returns in a new adaptation now available on DVD and Blu-ray: Princess Goldenhair (Zlatovláska).
The story follows young royal servant Jiřík, who disobeys his king and tastes a bite of a magical serpent. This act grants him the ability to understand the speech of animals but also sets him on a dangerous journey to win the heart of Princess Goldenhair, who lives in a mysterious kingdom surrounded by the sea. Accompanied by his childhood friend Štěpán and an adorable dog named Štístko, Jiřík embarks on an adventure filled with magical creatures, perilous trials, and a test of true friendship.
While children will enjoy the classic fairy-tale atmosphere, parents will appreciate the symbolic themes and gentle wisdom woven throughout. The film also features an engaging transformation arc for the character Štěpán, brought to life with emotional depth. The inclusion of real animal actors was a heartwarming and clever touch, especially Štístko, who charmed the audience with every appearance.
Some small viewers found the abundance of evil characters a bit overwhelming, noting that in addition to Jiřík's original king, there were several other antagonists. However, the core values of kindness, courage, and loyalty shine through.
Visually, the film delights with stunning shots, particularly scenes filmed at the romantic Lednice Castle, which looked absolutely magical in evening light. The musical joke during the sea voyage and the clever use of a swordfish's snout added to the film's charm and originality. Princess Goldenhair is a delightful return to traditional storytelling, made modern with thoughtful production and a strong cast. It's available now on Blu-ray and DVD with subtitles in Czech, English.
Perfect for family movie nights, it’s a Czech fairy tale reborn for a new generation.