Birthday of the Film Director Z. K.

Jaroslav Balík’s last film is a partly autobiographical drama in which the then 63-year-old director retells the early years of his directing career (1946–1949). Celebrating his 60th birthday, the protagonist reminisces on the post-war years. The newly nationalised film industry has clashed with the prejudices of conservative old-timers who hope for the return of the commercially-oriented pre-war era. Against them stands the progressive, leftist young filmmakers, such as assistant director Zdenek Kalina. In his ambition to be accepted to the newly established Film Academy, he marries Hanka, a wealthy and well-connected actress (Veronika Gajerová). Jiří Sedláček stars as the young Kalina; Rudolf Hrušínský lends his talent as the voice of Kalina’s older self, looking back upon his long directing career.