Escape

This 1967 drama laid on a screen debut for 13-year-old actor Roman Skamene. Directed by Štěpán Skalský, and based on the eponymous novel by Ota Hofman, the film tells the story of adolescent boy Saša Tichý, who runs away from home after being suspected of partial responsibility for a fire in a wooden shed. The boy strikes up a chance friendship with young Fangio, the person actually responsible for the fire. Saša decides to bring the boy to justice, keeping him in his sights at all costs. But this odd couple, formed of lies and suspicion, gradually transforms into a genuine friendship, which causes Saša to change his plans. The simple film benefits from authentic performances by Ivan Vyskočil in the role of Fangio, as well as a despondent autumnal atmosphere, and absorbing black and white cinematography by cameraman Jiří Šámal.