Movie spotlight
Pelikán má alibi
While street photographers Máček and Kalabis are vainly offering their services to passersby, a pair of cronies rob a jewelry store almost right in front of their eyes. Kalabis accidentally manages to photograph one of the robbers. Coincidentally, the brutal thug is indistinguishable from the notorious bookseller Karel Pelikán. Hard times await him: the police, led by the experienced district inspector Moudřý, are interested in him, as well as a gang of criminals who accidentally slipped Karl a ticket from the train station locker where they hid the loot. The only ones who trust Karl are his good-natured aunt Klára and his girlfriend in love, Jarmila...
Insights
Plot Summary
A renowned actor, Karel Vanura, is accused of murdering a wealthy businessman. He claims to have an alibi, but it's convoluted and involves a series of humorous misunderstandings and disguises. The police, led by a determined inspector, struggle to piece together the truth amidst the actor's elaborate, and often absurd, attempts to prove his innocence.
Critical Reception
As a vehicle for the immensely popular Vlasta Burian, 'Pelikán má alibi' was a commercial success in Czechoslovakia. Critically, it was seen as a typical Vlasta Burian comedy, prioritizing his comedic talents and popular appeal over deep plot or character development. It remains a fondly remembered film from the era for its humor and Burian's performance.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Vlasta Burian's signature comedic performance and energetic presence.
The plot is light and serves mainly as a framework for Burian's gags and characterizations.
A charming, albeit simple, comedy from the pre-war Czechoslovak cinema.
Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's lightheartedness and Vlasta Burian's enduring comedic genius, making it an enjoyable watch for fans of classic Czech comedy.
Fun Fact
Vlasta Burian, one of the most popular Czech comedians of the first half of the 20th century, was also a talented singer and performed several songs in his films, including this one.
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