Movie spotlight
Čert a dráha
A railway fairy tale about how the devil fell in love with Bětuška and the machines... The young devil Fadrius is supposed to pass the diploma exam at the hellish university by gaining a soul on the ground of hell according to the questionnaire he received. So he sets off for his destination - the village of Dražice in Bohemia. He tries to get the soul of the old woman Kolejačka and the track master Doubek. But he falls in love with his daughter Bětuška. But Doubek does not want to give her to him...
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Plot Summary
In a realm where dragons roam and magic is real, a young princess is captivated by a handsome stable boy. Their forbidden love is threatened by a scheming sorcerer who seeks to usurp the throne and plunge the kingdom into darkness. With the help of a mischievous but loyal dragon, the princess and her beloved must embark on a perilous quest to find a mythical artifact that can defeat the sorcerer and save their kingdom.
Critical Reception
The film was a popular success in Czechoslovakia, particularly among younger audiences, for its lighthearted fairy tale elements and comedic performances. While not critically acclaimed by international standards, it is remembered fondly as a charming piece of its era's genre filmmaking.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its whimsical fairy tale narrative and visual charm.
Enjoyed for its light-hearted humor and accessible fantasy elements.
Seen as a pleasant, if somewhat formulaic, genre entry from its time.
Google audience: Audiences generally found the film to be an entertaining and charming fairy tale with enjoyable characters and a positive message. It's often recalled as a nostalgic favorite for those who grew up with it.
Fun Fact
The film's title translates to 'The Devil and the Track', but the plot is a classic fairy tale with no direct connection to trains or railroads, suggesting the title might be metaphorical or a remnant of an earlier concept.
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