Had not heard of 'The Princess with the Golden Star' until fairly recently. It was when it appeared in my recommended for you section when it immediately picqued my interest. The recomendation couldn't have come at a perfect time, have been watching a fair share of films based on fairy/folk tales recently, East German ones in particular, and was running out of things to watch. Needing something to distract me from illness, a so far difficult year, concert preparation and the further anxiety of a repeat serial review down-voter causing upset.
Finally seeing it, from me 'The Princess with the Golden Star' couldn't be recommended highly enough. Anybody who loves another Czech fairy tale film 'Three Wishes for Cinderella', though this film was made and released much earlier, are very likely to love this every bit as much, even though the story is not near as well known which actually will be an interest point rather than a detriment. Am somebody who loves that film and to me 'The Princess with the Golden Star' is very nearly on par with it in its own way.
'The Princess with the Golden Star' is a visually beautiful film, the vibrant colours literally popping out and the production design is not elaborate but still imaginative. Beautifully photographed as well, the mouse coat is unattractive sure but it's meant to be. Loved the music here as well, the scoring is a perfect fit in how it's orchestrated and used while the Czech songs are infectious and charming. The ballet choreography was choreographed with care and affection, never looking too busy or sparse and not over-the-top to the extent that it comes over as overblown. The swashbuckling is not clumsy and was pretty thrilling.
It's a more than competently directed film throughout while it's written with charm, taking the material seriously while not being over-serious and providing fun along the way too. The story is charming and does enchant, with a relatable protagonist in Lada, a wholly hateable but never over-achetypal villain, amusing side characters and a romantic chemistry that is not given short shrift or doesn't feel too shallow. The pace is deliberate but never dull.
Marie Kyselkova is a wholly endearing Lada, one roots for Lada without ever feeling forced to, and Josef Zima is a dashing, sympathetic Radovan. Martin Ruzek is suitably formidable as villainous Kazisvet. The ballet master and cook are very nicely played as well.
All in all, recommend it highly and has made me more interested in watching Czech films. 10/10
