Fairy-Tales of an Old Magician
Fairy-Tales of an Old Magician

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Fairy-Tales of an Old Magician

1984
Movie
133 min
Russian

A princess is born to the king and queen of a fairy-tale kingdom. The wicked witch, who resents not having been invited to the princess's birthday party, curses her: on the day the princess turns 16, she will be pricked by the spindle of a spinning wheel and fall into eternal sleep. The king orders that all spinning wheels in the kingdom be destroyed and the number 16 be taken out of use. However, a young traveling prince arrives, bringing a curse with him.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Jindřich PolákGenres: Fantasy, Children's, Comedy

Plot Summary

In a world where magic is fading, a lonely old magician named Ignatz tries to preserve the last remnants of enchantment by telling stories. He encounters a cynical young girl named Míla, who is initially unimpressed by his tales. As Ignatz shares his magical experiences and warns of the dangers of losing imagination, Míla begins to see the world through his eyes, rediscovering the wonder that lies within fairy tales and understanding the importance of keeping magic alive.

Critical Reception

This Czechoslovakian fantasy film was generally well-received for its charming storytelling and nostalgic appeal, particularly among family audiences. Critics praised its whimsical tone and the heartfelt performance of Václav Voska as the titular magician, though some found its pacing slow by modern standards.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its gentle, imaginative narrative and focus on the enduring power of storytelling.

  • Václav Voska's portrayal of the magician is a standout, bringing warmth and wisdom to the role.

  • Appreciated for its nostalgic charm and its message about preserving wonder in a changing world.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The film was originally conceived as a television series before being adapted into a feature film, with much of the magical effects achieved through practical means and clever camerawork typical of 1980s European cinema.

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