Central European cinema sees new documentary and comedy releases

In the realm of film, two distinct releases are making an impact in Central Europe. The documentary ‘Up Again’ (Újra fel), directed by Eliška Andršová Cílková, provides a time-lapse portrait of three-time Czech figure skating champion Barbora Vránková. The film explores the intense pressure and personal struggles of Vránková between the ages of 15 and 18 as she trains in Italy to reach the elite level. It is set to premiere at the Jihlava International Documentary Film Festival before its theatrical release in Czech cinemas and its subsequent debut on HBO Max in December.

Meanwhile, in Hungary, the romantic fantasy comedy ‘With One More Wish’ (Még egy kívánsággal), directed by Kata Dobó and Fanni Szilágyi, has reached the top of the domestic box office. The film attracted 20,081 viewers during its debut, surpassing recent hits like ‘Verity’. Starring Kata Dobó alongside Mariann Hermányi and Gellért L. Kádár, the production demonstrates a sustained local interest in the romantic comedy genre.