Legendary Czechoslovak director Karel Zeman's film "The Fabulous World of Jules Verne" is inspired by Jules Verne's novel of the same name, creating a captivating blend of live-action and animation that continues to impress audiences with its originality. Now presented in a beautifully restored edition. 
The film follows the story of brilliant inventor Professor Roch, who discovers a substance powerful enough to destroy the world. He soon finds himself in the clutches of the mysterious and sinister Count Artigas, who, using his submarine and immense resources, aims to conquer the world. Artigas kidnaps Professor Roch and his assistant, engineer Hart, who desperately tries to free the professor and avert disaster. In a dramatic climax, Hart manages to send a message to humanity, uniting forces to prevent catastrophe.
Zeman's film stands out for its unique visual style, combining live-action, animation, and illustrations inspired by the original Jules Verne novels. The film evokes a fascination with technological progress, steam-powered machinery, and futuristic inventions, while simultaneously warning about the dangers of their misuse. Today, the film is considered a masterpiece of cinema, unmatched in its distinct stylistic approach.
Interesting Fact:
After the original publication of Jules Verne's novel, chemist Eugène Turpin, inventor of the explosive Melinite (picric acid), sued Verne, recognizing himself in the character of Roch. Turpin felt defamed, as he had sold his invention only to the French government. Verne was successfully defended by Raymond Poincaré, later the President of France, though Turpin was likely indeed the inspiration, possibly alongside Alfred Nobel, inventor of dynamite. 
The newly restored version of "The Fabulous World of Jules Verne" provides an opportunity to rediscover this extraordinary film, renowned for its artistic originality and timeless message, still captivating audiences worldwide.