Hour of Truth

Nataša Tanská’s acclaimed radio play Hodina angličtiny (English Lesson, 1974) was broadcast in seven countries and performed on stage by the legendary Moscow Art Theatre (MXAT). The play was transferred to the silver screen in 1977 with a slightly modified title. The dramatic narrative revolves around depressed convalescent Jarmila Slezáková who secretly decides to end her life after learning of her husband’s adultery. The English teacher of her small daughter, Ms Majerová, realises that the desperate woman is about to take her own life. The teacher, eventually aided by the errant husband, fights to save Jarmila’s life as time ticks away… Adapting the intimate radio play, which featured only the girl and her English teacher, director Václav Matějka created a subtle psychological drama. Jana Gýrová was cast in the role of teacher Ms Majerová while Hana Maciuchová excels as the husband’s mistress Petra.