Bod obnovy, internationally known as Restore Point, marks a significant leap forward for Czech cinema, not only in its subject matter but also in execution. Set in the year 2041, the film introduces a world where resurrection after an unnatural death is a right, contingent on the regular creation of digital backups of one's personality. The plot thickens when Agent Em takes on a case of violated recovery protocols, with the victim's recovery point being mysteriously deleted.
What makes Restore Point stand out is its serious, high-quality approach to sci-fi, a genre often underexplored in Czech cinema. It boldly steps into an ambitiously crafted narrative, setting a high bar for audio-visual quality. The movie can stand proudly on its own merits without the often-used caveat "for a Czech film".
Drawing comparisons to the hit series "Altered Carbon", Restore Point explores similar themes of revival and technological advancements. However, it diverges significantly in its storytelling and world-building, creating a unique and well-thought-out cyberpunk universe. The film steers clear of being a mere imitation, instead forging its own path with a serious detective story infused with classic corporate conspiracy themes. Expect less action and nudity but a more intricate plot that intelligently layers its narrative, offering a profound look at the societal impacts of technology.
Where the film falters is in its dramatic delivery. The potential for powerful moments and motifs is evident but often gets lost in execution. The revelations are somewhat predictable, and the film struggles to fully convey the gravity of certain situations. This could be attributed to the relative inexperience of the debut director, who, hopefully, will hone these skills in future projects.
The film's over-reliance on paraphrasing iconic genre films like "Ghost in the Shell", "The Matrix", and "Blade Runner" is notable. While these nods warm the hearts of genre fans, they feel more like crutches than necessities. "Restore Point" could benefit from embracing its original Central European cyberpunk style more consistently.
Despite its shortcomings, Restore Point is a film to be celebrated. It might not reach the status of a cult classic, but it's undoubtedly a miracle within Czech cinema. It's a must-watch, not just for its entertainment value, but also for supporting the emergence of more such ambitious projects in the region. The film deserves a 9/10 for its groundbreaking effort and for bringing something refreshingly new to Czech audiences.