This film is a stylish and sensitive examination of adolescent fears and insecurities, a topic that never ever goes out of fashion. Jiri Menzel 'closely watches' a young man whose life revolves around a desire to lose his virginity, when he is not "busy" guarding a railway platform, literally watching and waving at the
trains. In his static, inwards lifestyle, the character Milos, played by Vaclav Neckar, prefers to wither in his personal frustrations than to focus on the approaching German occupation; soon enough the clash of external violence and profound self-loathing send him over the edge and make him abandon his usual observant position. It may sound all very gloomy, and can be very heartbreaking at times, but the film is also very funny, full of black humor and awkward sexual metaphors. The character of Milos is unique in that he is both pathetic and heroic at the same time, and the film has a general 'quotidian' and relatable feel to it. Neckar's perfect performance, cool and clear cinematography and surrealistic undertones complete its charm.
December 17, 2010
