Marketa Lazarová

The greatest film in the history of Czech cinema, released almost at the same time as Andrei Rublev and sharing much of its spirit. Set in 13th-century Bohemia, it follows Marketa, a young woman who, by chance, becomes part of the outlaw Kozlík clan and witnesses the brutal struggle between the old pagan world and the emerging royal order.

The film is physically demanding to watch because of its relentless violence. Where Tarkovsky alternates darkness with hope, Vláčil offers an almost uninterrupted vision of cruelty, with only fleeting glimpses of love. Yet the emotional reward is immense.

🏆 Repeatedly voted the greatest Czech film of all time.

🏆 Holds a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.