Flower Buds tells the story of the gradual breakdown of a family living in a small town. Each character lives according to his or her own ideals. Agata wants a happy life far from home, fully aware that her only hope is to escape and therefore betray those close to her. Honza believes in the purity and power of love, regardless of the circumstances under which it is born. Kamila looks confidently to the future and does not intend to accept the misery of the present. The only Jarda knows that he will not change the world or himself. Aware of his weakness, he does not even try. In his mind, of course, his addiction to slot machines, which has led to a nearly impossible situation, is as certain as most gamblers' belief of an imminent win. The real and convincing attempt to rescue his family comes when it is too late. It is just a futile gesture, a desperate last ditch effort.
Acting
Javorský's Jarda — defeat in every shrug.
Direction
Jiráský lets silence do the screaming.
Director
Zdeněk Jiráský
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Part of the Czech 'miserabilist' wave — films confronting post-communist despair without Hollywood redemption.
Vladimír Javorský reportedly spent time in actual gambling halls to capture Jarda's physical resignation.
CZ
