I read the book and enjoyed it. However, this film adaptation, in spite of good actors, okay costumes, and being filmed in what appears to be the actual locations (Stare belidlo, etc) is not good. This is a story very dear to the hearts of the Czech nation and it was simply not done justice. Running time is wasted with artsy shots that are way too long and add nothing to the movie and cause viewer's boredom. While the book was fast paced and interesting, at times even suspenseful (Viktorka's story), this movie is so slow-paced that watching the entire movie at once is almost painful. I clearly do not like this director's style. I saw one other movie he directed - The Third Prince - and that was likewise downright awful. I wish I could give this a better rating, but it really is not worth watching. Comparable to "The New World" directed by Terrence Malick (2005).
