New Movies: Waves (2024) by Jirí Mádl: A Gripping Ode to Press Freedom

Core Summary: Journalists Fight for Truth Amidst Prague Spring Tumult Waves (2024), a Czech-Slovak historical thriller drama directed and written by Jirí Mádl, plunges into the tumultuous era of the 1968 Prague Spring and the subsequent Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia. The film centers on a group of Czechoslovak Radio journalists who, amidst overwhelming propaganda and police harassment, risk their careers and lives to broadcast uncensored, independent news. Central to this struggle are two orphaned brothers, one of whom finds himself forced to spy for the secret service, creating a gripping personal dilemma intertwined with monumental historical events and serving as a powerful ode to press freedom.

Summary Short: During the 1968 Prague Spring, journalists and two orphaned brothers risk everything to broadcast truth against Soviet oppression and censorship.

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27587485/

Link Review: https://variety.com/2024/film/reviews/waves-review-jiri-madl-prague-spring-kviff-1236192823/

About movie: https://www.kviff.com/en/programme/film/69/43388-waves

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/es/pelicula/vlny (Spain), https://www.universcine.com/films/radio-prague-les-ondes-de-la-revolte (France)

Detailed Summary: Courage in the Face of Censorship

• Film Overview: Waves (Czech: Vlny) is a 2024 Czech-Slovak historical thriller drama, with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes (some sources list 2 hours and 11 minutes). It is written and directed by Jirí Mádl.

• Historical Setting: The film is set in the pivotal year of 1968, amidst the intellectual and political reforms of the Prague Spring in Czechoslovakia, which were brutally crushed by the Warsaw Pact invasion. This provides a backdrop of national and regional tumult.

• Central Conflict - Press Freedom: The narrative revolves around the vital importance of independent journalism and the dangers faced by those who strive to report the truth under an oppressive regime. Czechoslovak Radio journalists become the protagonists, committed to defying Communist Party censorship and propaganda.

• Personal Stakes: A core storyline focuses on two orphaned brothers:

  • Tomáš (Vojtěch Vodochodský): The elder brother, a radio technician working at the station. He is pressured by security forces (StB - the secret service) to spy on his colleagues, creating a profound moral dilemma where he must choose between betrayal and protecting his teenage sibling.

  • Pavel Havlík (Ondřej Stupka): Tomáš's younger, teenage brother, whose safety becomes a key motivation for Tomáš's difficult choices.

• Act of Heroism: The film depicts the heroism of ordinary Czechs, specifically journalists, who risk everything to ensure uncensored news reaches the public during the invasion. A "compromising record" is hinted at as having the potential to change history.

• Genre Blend: Described as a historical thriller drama, Waves combines the tension of espionage and political intrigue with the emotional depth of personal sacrifice and the urgency of historical events.

• Language: The primary language of the film is Czech.

• Acclaim: Waves has already garnered significant international and national acclaim, winning multiple awards including the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival's Právo Audience Award, the Satellite Award for Best Foreign Language Film, and numerous Czech Lion Awards (including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Screenplay).

Plot Summary: A Brother's Choice, A Nation's Voice

• The Eve of Invasion: In the vibrant but increasingly tense atmosphere of the late 1960s Prague, filled with the spirit of rock-and-roll and student rebellions, Tomáš Havlík, the older of two orphaned brothers, secures a position at the prestigious newsroom of the public radio broadcaster.

• Caught in the Crosshairs: As the political climate deteriorates and the threat of Soviet intervention looms, Tomáš quickly finds himself entangled in a perilous conflict between the determined journalists committed to broadcasting the truth and the pervasive secret service (StB) attempting to control all information.

• The Ultimate Dilemma: The StB leverages Tomáš's vulnerability – his teenage brother, Pavel – forcing him to become an informant. Tomáš is agonizingly torn between his loyalty to his colleagues and the crucial mission of uncensored broadcasting, and his responsibility to protect his only family.

• The Invasion and the Broadcast: When the Warsaw Pact invasion finally occurs, a critical moment arises. Tomáš must make his choice: succumb to the pressure of the secret service or actively aid the journalists in broadcasting vital, uncensored news to the nation, even if it means putting his life and his brother's future at extreme risk.

• A Fight for Truth: The film chronicles the desperate, heroic efforts within the radio station as the journalists and their allies strive to keep the airwaves alive with independent information, defying the Soviet-backed regime and affirming the enduring power of truth in a time of widespread disinformation.

Director's Vision: Jirí Mádl's Ode to Resilience and Freedom Jirí Mádl (born June 24, 1986, in České Budějovice, Czechoslovakia) is an acclaimed Czech actor, director, and screenwriter. His directorial vision for Waves is characterized by:

• Historical Authenticity with Personal Drama: Mádl aims to intertwine well-known historical events with compelling personal stories, making the grand historical narrative relatable through individual struggles.

• Championing Press Freedom: The film is explicitly an "ode to press freedom and a timely reminder of the dangers of censorship," reflecting Mádl's commitment to these themes.

• Moral Ambiguity and Tough Choices: By placing his protagonist, Tomáš, in a moral bind, Mádl explores the complexities of human decisions under duress and the grey areas of loyalty and survival.

• Visceral and Gripping Storytelling: Drawing from his experience as both an actor and director (his directorial debut To See the Sea won international awards, and his second film was On the Roof), Mádl employs a thrilling and immersive style to convey the tension and heroism of the period.

• Evoking the Spirit of 1968: The film aims to capture the "heady days" of the Prague Spring, filled with the energy of rock-and-roll and student rebellions, creating a vivid backdrop for the drama.

Themes: Press Freedom, Censorship, Betrayal, Loyalty, Resilience, Sacrifice, and Historical Truth

• Press Freedom vs. Censorship: The central conflict, highlighting the critical role of independent media in a democratic society and the dangers of its suppression.

• Individual Choice and Moral Compromise: Explores the agonizing decisions individuals must make when faced with threats to themselves or loved ones under oppressive systems.

• Loyalty and Betrayal: Examines the complexities of loyalty to family, colleagues, and country, and the potential for betrayal when survival is at stake.

• Resilience of the Human Spirit: Celebrates the courage and determination of ordinary people who resist oppression and fight for their beliefs.

• The Power of Information: Underscores how information can be a weapon and a tool for liberation during times of political upheaval.

• Historical Memory: Serves as a reminder of past struggles for freedom and vigilance against authoritarianism.

• Family Bonds: The relationship between the two brothers forms a poignant emotional core amidst the political turmoil.

Key Success Factors: Critically Acclaimed, Timely, and Powerful Story

• Compelling Historical Context: The 1968 Prague Spring is a resonant historical period, offering inherent drama and relevance.

• Strong Direction and Screenplay: Jirí Mádl's dual role as writer and director, combined with the film's many awards, points to high artistic and narrative quality.

• Universal Themes: The fight for truth and freedom against oppression is universally understood and appreciated.

• Ensemble Cast: The talented Czech and Slovak cast brings depth and authenticity to the characters.

• Thrilling Narrative: The "thriller" element ensures a gripping and engaging viewing experience.

Summary Short: Czech-Slovak Production, August 2024 Release, Multi-Award Winner Waves (2024) is a Czech-Slovak historical thriller drama directed by Jirí Mádl. It premiered in Slovakia on August 1, 2024, and in the Czech Republic on August 22, 2024. The film has received extensive critical acclaim and numerous awards, including the Karlovy Vary IFF Právo Audience Award, Satellite Award for Best Foreign Language Film, multiple Czech Lion Awards (including Best Film and Best Director), and Sun in a Net Awards (Best Film, Best Director). It was also selected as the Czech entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Key cast members include Vojtěch Vodochodský, Ondřej Stupka, Stanislav Majer, and Táňa Pauhofová. Production companies include Dawson Films (Czech Republic) and Wandal Production (Slovakia), with sales handled by Urban Sales.

Awards & Nominations: Highly Decorated Film Waves (2024) has received significant recognition and numerous awards and nominations:

• Winner:

  • 58th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival: Právo Audience Award (2024)

  • Finále Plzeň Film Festival: Student Jury Award for Best Feature Film (2024)

  • 29th Satellite Awards: Best Foreign Language Film (2025)

  • 32nd Czech Lion Awards (2025):

    • Best Film

    • Best Director (Jirí Mádl)

    • Best Supporting Actor (Stanislav Majer)

    • Best Supporting Actress (Tatiana Pauhofová)

    • Best Screenplay (Jirí Mádl)

    • Best Sound (Viktor Ekrt)

    • Film Fans Award

  • 14th Sun in a Net Awards (2025 - Slovakia):

    • Best Film

    • Best Director (Jirí Mádl)

    • Best Screenplay (Jirí Mádl)

    • Best Actor in Leading Role (Vojtěch Vodochodský)

    • Best Cinematography (Martin Žiaran)

    • Best Editing (Filip Malásek)

    • Best Sound (Viktor Ekrt)

    • Best Visual Effects (Ivo Marák, Miro Gál)

• Nominations:

  • Czech Lion Awards (2025): Best Actor in a Leading Role (Vojtěch Vodochodský), Best Supporting Actor (Martin Hoffmann), Best Cinematography, Best Film Editing, Best Music, Best Stage Design, Best Costume Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

  • Czech Film Critics' Awards (2025): Best Film, Best Director (Jirí Mádl), Best Screenplay (Jirí Mádl).

  • Sun in a Net Awards (2025): Best Actress in Leading Role (Táňa Pauhofová), Best Supporting Actor (Tomáš Maštalír), Best Music, Best Stage Design, Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

• Official Selection: Selected as the Czech entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards.

• Received a standing ovation at its premiere in Bratislava and was selected for the Arab Critics' Award for European Films.

Critics Reception: Highly Praised Critics have lauded Waves (2024) for its compelling historical drama and its relevance to contemporary issues of press freedom.

• The Hollywood Reporter (December 12, 2024) stated: "With its focus on the news gathering process, Waves affirms the importance of independent and ethical reporting."

• Reviews highlight its gripping narrative, strong performances, and Jirí Mádl's effective direction and screenplay. The film's ability to intertwine personal stories with well-known historical events has been particularly praised.

Reviews: Strong Positive Feedback from Festivals and Early Viewers The film has received strong positive feedback, especially from its festival premieres. Its numerous awards, including audience and critics' awards at major festivals, indicate that it has resonated deeply with both critics and early viewers. One review on Plex noted: "It doesn't get much better than this. Historical drama that makes you feel the history!"

Box Office: Strong Performance in Czech Republic and Slovakia Waves (2024) has demonstrated a strong box office performance in its home territories:

• Worldwide Gross: $8,405,432 (as of available data).

• Czech Republic: $7,106,936 (as of August 22, 2024 release). Jiří Mádl's Waves dominated the 2024 Czech annual box office.

• Slovakia: $1,295,972 (as of August 1, 2024 release).

• Hungary: $2,524 (as of May 22, 2025 release - still early in its run).

Production Summary: A Collaborative Czech-Slovak Historical Drama Waves (2024) is a co-production between the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It is directed and written by Jirí Mádl. Monika Kristlová is listed as a producer.

Production Companies:

• Dawson Films (Czech Republic)

• Wandal Production (Slovakia)

Sales Companies:

• Urban Sales

Distribution Companies:

• Bontonfilm (Czech Republic, likely also Slovakia)

• The film has also been released on digital platforms like Plex in some regions.

Theatrical Release: August 2024 in Slovakia and Czech Republic

• Slovakia: August 1, 2024

• Czech Republic: August 22, 2024

• Hungary: May 22, 2025 (limited release)

Cast:

• Vojtěch Vodochodský as Tomáš Havlík

• Ondřej Stupka as Pavel Havlík

• Stanislav Majer as Milan Weiner

• Táňa Pauhofová as Věra Šťovíčková

• Jan Nedbal

• Martin Hofmann as Luboš Dobrovský

• Petr Lněnička as Jan Petránek

• Marika Šoposká as Jarunka

• Tomáš Maštalír

• Igor Bareš

• Vojtěch Kotek as Jiří Dienstbier

• Theo Jacques

• Hana Kusnjerová

• Michaela Majerníková

• Matyáš Řezníček

• Petr Halíček

• Jacob Erftemeijer as Cermák

• Tomáš Weber

• Daniel Tůma

• Jan Novotný

Director:

• Jirí Mádl

Why to Recommend this Movie: Critically Acclaimed, Historically Significant, and Timely

• Outstanding Critical Recognition: Winner of numerous prestigious awards, including Best Foreign Language Film at the Satellite Awards and Best Film at the Czech Lion Awards.

• Compelling Historical Narrative: Offers a thrilling and emotional look at the Prague Spring and the fight for freedom of expression.

• Masterful Direction: Jirí Mádl's talent as a director and screenwriter shines through in this gripping historical drama.

• Powerful Themes: Explores universal issues of press freedom, censorship, loyalty, and the human cost of political oppression.

• Strong Performances: Features a talented ensemble cast that brings the historical characters to life.

Why to Watch Movie: If You Enjoy Historical Thrillers with Deep Meaning

• You are interested in European history, particularly the Cold War era and the Prague Spring.

• You appreciate films that highlight the importance of journalism and press freedom.

• You enjoy thrillers that combine political intrigue with intense personal drama.

• You seek award-winning international cinema with a strong narrative and emotional depth.

• You want a reminder of the courage of individuals in the face of authoritarianism.

Movie Trend: Resurgent Historical Dramas and Eastern European Cinema Waves (2024) aligns with the enduring trend of "Historical Dramas," particularly those that shed light on significant political turning points with contemporary relevance. Its success also signals a growing international appreciation for "Eastern European Cinema," showcasing high-quality productions from the region. The film's focus on information control and the fight for truth ties into the trend of "Media-Centric Narratives," which explore the power and responsibility of news in shaping society.

Social Trend: Echoes of the Past and the Fight for Truth The film deeply resonates with current social trends concerning "Disinformation and the Battle for Truth," especially in an era where information can be easily manipulated. Its depiction of censorship and state propaganda in 1968 serves as a powerful historical mirror to contemporary challenges to press freedom globally. The narrative of ordinary citizens risking everything for independent information connects to ongoing social movements advocating for "Human Rights and Democratic Freedoms." The film's success in the Czech Republic and Slovakia also reflects a societal interest in "Revisiting National History" to understand current political and social landscapes.

Final Verdict: A Must-See Historical Thriller of Exceptional Quality Waves (2024) by Jirí Mádl is an exceptional and profoundly relevant historical thriller drama. With its gripping narrative, powerful performances, and masterful direction, the film not only illuminates a crucial moment in Czechoslovak history but also delivers a timeless message about the enduring fight for truth and freedom against oppression. Its extensive list of awards and strong box office performance in its home countries underscore its quality and impact. For anyone seeking intelligent, emotionally resonant cinema with historical significance, Waves is a highly recommended and essential watch.

Recommendations for Filmmakers (for similar projects): Crafting Engaging Historical Narratives

• Focus on Human Stakes: Ground grand historical events in relatable, personal stories to make the narrative more accessible and emotionally impactful.

• Emphasize Contemporary Relevance: Even when depicting the past, highlight themes that resonate with current social and political issues to broaden the film's appeal.

• Invest in Period Authenticity: Meticulous attention to historical details in setting, costume, and atmosphere enhances immersion and credibility.

• Balance Thriller with Drama: Use elements of suspense and political intrigue to maintain audience engagement while delving into complex emotional and moral dilemmas.

• Seek International Co-productions: For historical films from smaller national cinemas, co-productions can provide necessary funding and broader distribution opportunities.

Recommendations for Movie Industry (for similar films): Supporting Meaningful Global Stories

• Champion Historically Significant Films: Invest in projects that bring important historical events to life, especially those with lessons for contemporary society.

• Promote Diverse National Cinemas: Actively support and distribute high-quality films from countries like the Czech Republic and Slovakia to enrich the global cinematic landscape.

• Recognize Artistry and Impact: Acknowledge films that successfully combine strong artistic merit with profound social or political commentary through awards and critical platforms.

• Facilitate Cross-Platform Distribution: Ensure films like Waves are available across various platforms (theatrical, streaming) to maximize their reach and impact worldwide.

• Support Press Freedom Narratives: Prioritize films that underscore the importance of independent journalism and expose the dangers of censorship, contributing to global advocacy efforts.

Final Conclusions: Waves - A Triumph of Storytelling and Substance Waves (2024) is a standout achievement in contemporary cinema, offering a powerful and poignant reflection on courage, truth, and the human cost of freedom. Jirí Mádl's masterful direction brings to life a critical historical moment with gripping intensity and emotional depth. Its numerous accolades are well-deserved, marking Waves as an essential film that resonates far beyond its historical context, providing a timely reminder of the enduring struggle for an uncensored voice.