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Hordubal
After five years of hard work in America Juraj Hordubal (Anatoliy Kuznetsov) returns back home. He is looking forward to his wife Polana (Libuse Geprtová) and his little daughter Hafie. The family and the village welcome him with hesitation. Everybody believed that Juraj died in America because Polana stopped receiving money from him already two years ago. Polana's farm was prospering first of all thanks to the young stable boy Stepán (Sándor Oszter). Men in the pub first indicate and then say to Juraj directly that Polana has been unfaithful to him with Stepán.
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Plot Summary
Based on Karel Capek's novel, Hordubal tells the story of a wealthy farmer from Subcarpathian Rus who returns to his village after years of working abroad. His return stirs up old resentments and complications, particularly concerning his wife and a young woman he had a relationship with. The narrative explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of past actions as Hordubal attempts to reintegrate into a community that has moved on without him.
Critical Reception
The film adaptation of Hordubal was generally well-received for its faithfulness to the source material and its strong performances, particularly by Rudolf Hrušínský in the titular role. It is considered a solid, albeit somewhat somber, cinematic interpretation of a classic Czech novel, capturing the rural atmosphere and the character's internal struggles.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its atmospheric portrayal of rural life.
Hrušínský's performance as Hordubal is a standout.
Faithful adaptation that captures the novel's thematic depth.
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Fun Fact
The film is an adaptation of the first part of Karel Čapek's 'Hordubal' trilogy, which also includes 'Povětroň' and 'Obyčejné životy'.
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