The Krakonos and the Skiers
The Krakonos and the Skiers

Movie spotlight

The Krakonos and the Skiers

1981
Movie
72 min
Czech

Matej and Jenda, two of the eight children of the poor Pelc family in the Giant Mountains, help in a glass works where the oldest brother Francek works. They hide into a tub not to be seen by supervisors checking on the ban of children labor. They miss the Epiphany carol (songs and treats door-to-door) and all neighbor village boys again on them in all the neighbor houses. On their way home they are passed by a fast moving big man with a large backpack. The boys send the customs officers, who are pursuing the strange man, to the opposite direction. The man then thanks them and rewards them the next day. Based on fairy-tales and legends the boys think the man is Krakonos (the giant living and ruling in the Giant Mountains).

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Vojtěch JasnýGenres: Fantasy, Comedy, Children's

Plot Summary

In the mystical Krkonoše Mountains, a grumpy old spirit named Krakonos is disturbed by the arrival of modern skiers. He attempts to scare them away with magical pranks, but his efforts are complicated when he befriends a young girl named Anička. Anička, along with the other skiers, helps Krakonos to understand and appreciate the new ways of the world.

Critical Reception

The Krakonos and the Skiers is a beloved Czech fantasy film that has charmed audiences for decades with its whimsical storytelling and picturesque mountain setting. While it received a modest release internationally, it remains a cherished classic within its home country, celebrated for its gentle humor and enduring portrayal of a local folk legend.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its charming depiction of the Krakonos legend.

  • Appreciated for its gentle humor suitable for families.

  • Noted for its beautiful cinematography of the Krkonoše Mountains.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the folklore of Krakonoš, a benevolent spirit of the Krkonoše Mountains (Giant Mountains) in Czech folklore, who is often depicted as a protector of the region.

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