Stone Bridge / Kamenny most DVD

Bitter Comedy, the third feature film by director Tomáš Vorel, is set in the heart of Prague, with Charles Bridge as the central backdrop. The story follows Tomáš, a former promising director and FAMU graduate, as he struggles with a classic mid-thirties crisis. As he aimlessly wanders around Malá Strana, he becomes increasingly disillusioned by the surrounding spirit of commerce, which he refuses to partake in. His personal relationships start to fray, especially with his wife, Martina, who finds Tomáš's lifestyle unbearable. She and her son, Péťa, find hope in Robert, a wealthy and successful producer, leading to a love triangle. Robert pressures Tomáš to write a film script, promising to finance its production, while expecting Tomáš not to interfere with his blossoming relationship with Martina. The film explores themes of romance, passion, black humor, and Prague's dark mystique, culminating in an unexpected twist. Despite its qualities, the story's quest for authenticity sometimes feels contrived, with stylistic inconsistencies and occasional heavy-handedness.