Zdeněk Troška’s ‘Kameňák’: A Comedy That Missed the Mark
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Prague – A lesser-known work from the prolific Czech director Zdeněk Troška, the 2003 comedy Kameňák, has resurfaced in discussions about his filmography. While celebrated for his heartwarming fairy tales and the iconic Sun, Hay, and Strawberries trilogy, Troška’s attempt at a joke-driven comedy proved controversial, drawing criticism for its reliance on vulgarity and questionable humor.
The Concept Behind ‘kameňák’
Troška aimed to create a cult comedy by structuring the film around a series of jokes, a concept that held promise given his established ability to capture Czech village life. However, the execution fell short, wiht many finding the film’s humor crude and its scenes ofen embarrassing. The film centers on the Novák family in a South Bohemian town, using each family member as a vehicle for different types of jokes.
Pepa Novák, the family patriarch and local police officer, serves as the source for law enforcement-related gags. His wife, Vilma, a teacher, provides jokes rooted in the school surroundings, while their daughter, Julie, a medical student, contributes healthcare-themed humor.
A Cast of Characters
Beyond the Novák family, Kameňák features a colorful cast including lovers, mistresses, a chateau couple, a mobster named Kohn, and even impostor nuns. A disapproving mother-in-law and a low-end pub complete the setting.
The Chateau’s Unusual Treasure
A central plot point revolves around a hidden treasure on the estate of the local nobleman. This treasure isn’t gold or jewels, but a “blue spring” rumored to be more potent than Viagra. The chateau lord seeks this treasure, inherited from his father, but isn’t the only one aware of its existence.
Pepíček and the Endless jokes
The youngest novák, nine-year-old Pepíček, embodies the spirit of the well-known Czech joke character Pepíček, delivering a constant stream of quips. One example includes the line, “She went and went. When she came to another state!”
Týn nad Vltavou, one of the filming locations for Troška’s Kameňák. Source: Shutterstock
Borrowing from the Past
Some viewers noted similarities between Kameňák and the late-night Czech show Feathers, suggesting Troška borrowed heavily from its material. The film’s scenes, frequently enough featuring suggestive situations and coarse language, were considered by some to be exploitative.
Did You Know? Zdeněk Troška is known for his prolific output,having directed dozens of prosperous films and television series,primarily in the genres of fairy tale and comedy.
Online forums reflect this sentiment, with one user stating the film’s English title, “Bad Joke,” is apt, describing it as a farce that appeals to base instincts.
A scene That Shocked Audiences
Kameňák includes a scene featuring an exhibitionist in a local park. When he inadvertently reveals himself to an elderly woman, her reaction is, “I forgot the eggs to buy.” The scene, while intended for comedic effect, was widely considered inappropriate and contributed to the film’s negative reception.
The film’s approach to such themes is described as “rough and primitive,” reminiscent of low-quality establishments.
Moments of Genuine Humor
Not all scenes were met with disapproval. A brief exchange between two police officers, involving a counterfeit banknote, provided a moment of lighthearted humor.One officer proudly displays his find, only for his colleague to point out it’s a hundred-crown note with three zeros.
Pro Tip: When evaluating a comedy, consider the cultural context and target audience. Humor is subjective and what resonates with one group may not appeal to another.
| Film | Director | Year Released | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kameňák | Zdeněk Troška | 2003 | Comedy |
What are your thoughts on the use of controversial humor in film? Do you think there are limits to what is acceptable for comedic effect?
Zdeněk Troška’s career spans decades, marked by a consistent ability to connect with Czech audiences through relatable characters and settings.While Kameňák represents a departure from his signature style, it offers insight into his willingness to experiment. The film’s failure highlights the challenges of crafting humor that appeals to a broad audience without crossing into offensive territory.the ongoing discussion surrounding Kameňák underscores the evolving standards of comedic taste and the importance of sensitivity in filmmaking.
Frequently Asked Questions about ‘Kameňák’
- What is ‘Kameňák’ about? Kameňák is a Czech comedy film centered around the Novák family and their involvement in a series of joke-driven situations.
- Who directed ‘Kameňák’? The film was directed by Zdeněk Troška.
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Why was ‘Kameňák’ criticized? The film received criticism for its vulgarity, crude humor, and reliance on perhaps offensive jokes.
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What is the importance of the “blue spring” in the film? The “blue spring” is a fictional treasure rumored to have properties similar to Viagra.
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Is ‘Kameňák’ representative of Zdeněk Troška’s typical work? no, Kameňák is considered an outlier in Troška’s filmography, which is primarily known for fairy tales and family-pleasant comedies.
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