Prague Selection

This stylised docudrama is a fanciful tale presenting the rock band Pražský výběr (Prague Selection) in the spirit of the relaxed atmosphere that immediately followed the November 1989 Velvet Revolution. The film, combining reality, fiction and parodies of both, was directed by Karel Smyczek together with the popular band’s frontman Michael Kocáb. It hyperbolically recaps on the band’s fortunes and misfortunes since 1984. Kocáb not only delivers the part of himself, but also that of a narrator, the oaf Ropotámo, who was an integral part of the band’s stage performances. The band endures bans imposed by the communist regime, as well as an internal conflict between Kocáb and guitarist Michael Pavlíček. The film’s narrative culminates with a concert at the Prague Lucerna venue on the eve of the November revolution. The totalitarian regime has met its demise, but the united performances of the band have not… In addition to members of Pražský výběr, the film also features other showbiz celebrities, such as Lucie Bílá, Bára Basiková and Frank Zappa.