King of the Sumava 1959
Set against the misty, rugged landscapes of Cold War-era Czechoslovakia, *King of the Sumava (1959)* follows a tense cat-and-mouse chase through the forests of the Šumava region.
Director: Karel Kachyňa
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is King of the Sumava (1959) about?
The film tells the story of Czechoslovak border guards on a high-stakes mission to capture a legendary escape artist known as the "King of the Sumava." Set in the dense, atmospheric forests of Šumava, it blends adventure with drama as the guards navigate both the rugged terrain and the moral complexities of their duty.
Who directed King of the Sumava?
The movie was directed by Karel Kachyňa, a respected Czechoslovak filmmaker known for his work in drama and historical narratives.
Who stars in King of the Sumava?
The film features Radovan Lukavský, Jiří Vala, Jiřina Švorcová, Jaroslav Marvan, and Stanislav Remunda in key roles.
Is King of the Sumava (1959) worth watching?
While it lacks an IMDb rating, its blend of historical drama, adventure, and atmospheric tension makes it a compelling watch for fans of Cold War-era storytelling. The tight 90-minute runtime and strong performances elevate it beyond a simple chase narrative.
How long is King of the Sumava?
The runtime of *King of the Sumava* is 90 minutes.
About King of the Sumava (1959) — A gripping border guards vs. fugitive thriller through Cold War Czechoslovakia
Set against the misty, rugged landscapes of Cold War-era Czechoslovakia, *King of the Sumava (1959)* follows a tense cat-and-mouse chase through the forests of the Šumava region. Veteran director Karel Kachyňa crafts this dramatic adventure around the real-life exploits of a notorious escape artist—nicknamed the "King of the Sumava"—who slips past border guards with cunning precision. The film captures the era's atmosphere of duty and suspense, as dedicated Czechoslovak border patrols risk their lives to bring him to justice. With its blend of historical grit and human drama, the movie immerses viewers in a world where loyalty, strategy, and sheer determination collide.
Radovan Lukavský leads the ensemble cast with gravitas, portraying the determined commander leading the pursuit, while Jiří Vala and Jiřina Švorcová bring emotional depth to the moral dilemmas faced by both pursuers and the fugitive. The 90-minute runtime keeps the tension tight, as each step through the dense woods heightens the stakes. Kachyňa's direction balances realism with cinematic tension, making *King of the Sumava* more than just a chase—it's a character-driven study of persistence and the cost of duty.