In the Czech Republic, film critics have handed out awards, and I can't shake the feeling of disappointment they left behind. This is particularly about the film Vlny by director Jiří Mádl, which did not receive any awards, despite deserving them so much. Unfortunately, Vlny has not yet been released on any media, so we cannot offer it to you at the moment. However, what we can offer is a look at the exceptional career of Jiří Mádl, who has evolved from a popular actor into a respected director.
Beginnings in Film
Jiří Mádl, together with Vojta Kotek, won over audiences’ hearts with Snowboarďáci and later its sequel, Rafťáci. These comedies made him popular among young viewers and launched his acting career. Since 2005, Jiří has taken on not only comedic roles like Probudím se včera or Jak se krotí krokodýli, but also heavier and darker roles, where he excelled. Colette is proof of that, as well as his unforgettable performances in fairy tales like Peklo s princeznou, which I personally love, or Láska rohatá. Simply put, Jiří Mádl has the ability to make people laugh, cry, and leave a lasting impression on the audience.
An Unexpected Transition to Directing
When I first heard that Jiří Mádl was stepping into directing, I thought: Everyone seems to be directing these days. But what he created completely amazed me. His debut film Pojedeme k moři touched many viewers and became the best-selling film in the country at the time. He demonstrated his talent for storytelling, bringing emotion and authenticity to the screen.
His next film, Na střeše/On the Roof, was equally brilliant. The production was temporarily halted due to the tragic passing of lead actor Jan Tříska. After his death, Alois Švehlík was cast in the lead role. The film received multiple Czech Lion awards and further cemented Mádl’s reputation as a remarkable filmmaker.
Vlny – The Most Watched Film of 2024
His latest film, Vlny, became the most-watched film in the Czech Republic in 2024, with 885,767 viewers. This historical drama reveals gripping and previously untold stories of journalists from Czechoslovak Radio. In the late 1960s, when rock ’n’ roll played on the airwaves and student revolutions changed the world, the older of two brothers joins the prestigious radio editorial team. He soon finds himself caught in a dangerous battle between reporters and secret services. In the whirlwind of events, everyone’s lives are at stake, and the protagonist faces a brutal choice: protect his brother, or stand by the truth and his colleagues? 
The film is inspired by the true story of a group of journalists from the international editorial team of Czechoslovak Radio and their determination to deliver independent news at all costs.
Jiří Mádl – A Director with Vision
In my opinion, Jiří Mádl is currently one of the best Czech directors and screenwriters. His work proves that he has a deep sense of storytelling, detail, and emotion. I’m already looking forward to seeing what role he takes on next or what new film he will bring to cinemas. And what about you? What is your favorite Jiří Mádl film?
