When the Oak Leaves Fall Poster

When the Oak Leaves Fall 1991

★ 8.33 votes28 min📅 1991-01-01

In *When the Oak Leaves Fall* (1991), Czech animator Vlasta Pospíšilová crafts a whimsical yet biting satire where the clever peasant Čupera outsmarts not one, but two formidable foes: the demon of alcohol and a bureaucratic devil who stops at nothing to claim his soul.

Director: Vlasta Pospíšilová

Cast

Jan Werich
Jan Werich
Narrator (voice) (archive footage)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *When the Oak Leaves Fall* (1991) about?

The film follows Čupera, a clever peasant who must overcome his own demons—literally. After battling alcohol addiction, he's dragged into a nightmarish bureaucratic hell where a devil relentlessly pursues him. Through wit and tenacity, Čupera turns the tables on his oppressors in this surreal, folk-inspired tale.

Who directed *When the Oak Leaves Fall*?

Vlasta Pospíšilová, a renowned Czech animator known for her distinctive visual storytelling and satirical edge.

Who stars in *When the Oak Leaves Fall*?

The film features Jan Werich in the lead role of Čupera, alongside other animated characters that bring Pospíšilová's darkly humorous world to life.

Is *When the Oak Leaves Fall* (1991) worth watching?

With its unique blend of animation, comedy, and social satire, *When the Oak Leaves Fall* is a cult classic for fans of Czech folklore and offbeat storytelling. While it may not be widely known, its creative approach and timeless themes make it a rewarding watch for those seeking something different.

How long is *When the Oak Leaves Fall*?

The film runs for 28 minutes.

About When the Oak Leaves Fall (1991) — Czech Animated Comedy with Sharp Wit and Folklore Flair

In *When the Oak Leaves Fall* (1991), Czech animator Vlasta Pospíšilová crafts a whimsical yet biting satire where the clever peasant Čupera outsmarts not one, but two formidable foes: the demon of alcohol and a bureaucratic devil who stops at nothing to claim his soul. Set against a surreal backdrop where hell resembles a sprawling shantytown, a claustrophobic prison galley, and a dehumanizing nightclub, this animated comedy blends dark humor with folk-tale charm. Pospíšilová's bold visual style mirrors Čupera's plight, turning withdrawal into a surreal odyssey where wit is the only weapon against absurdity.

The film's themes resonate as strongly today as they did in 1991, questioning authority and resilience through the lens of folklore. With its sharp satire and distinctive animation, *When the Oak Leaves Fall* stands out as a hidden gem in Czech animated cinema, offering a unique blend of comedy and social commentary that lingers long after the credits roll.