Hroch 1973
In the quirky Czechoslovak comedy-fantasy *Hroch* (1973), directed by Karel Steklý, a seemingly mundane bank officer named Bedřich Hroch finds himself in the most extraordinary predicament.
Director: Karel Steklý
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hroch (1973) about?
A bank officer named Bedřich Hroch is swallowed alive by a hippo during a routine inspection, only to survive unharmed inside its belly. His shocked wife and journalist friend witness the surreal event, leading to a cascade of absurd and comedic situations as they try to navigate the bizarre aftermath.
Who directed Hroch?
Karel Steklý, a prolific Czechoslovak director known for blending comedy and social commentary in his films.
Who stars in Hroch?
The film stars Oldo Hlaváček as Bedřich Hroch, Helga Čočková as his wife Dáša, Svatopluk Matyáš as the journalist Pip Karen, and Helena Blehárová, Miroslav Homola, and Zdena Hadrbolcová in supporting roles.
Is Hroch (1973) worth watching?
While *Hroch* isn't widely rated, its unique premise and blend of fantasy and comedy make it a charming oddity worth seeking out for fans of Czech New Wave cinema. The humor is lighthearted but clever, and the film's absurdity offers a refreshing break from conventional storytelling.
How long is Hroch?
The runtime for *Hroch* (1973) is 95 minutes.
About Hroch (1973) — A swallowed banker, a talking hippo, and the chaos that follows
In the quirky Czechoslovak comedy-fantasy *Hroch* (1973), directed by Karel Steklý, a seemingly mundane bank officer named Bedřich Hroch finds himself in the most extraordinary predicament. Sent by his boss to inspect a hippo's gold tooth at the zoo, Bedřich is accidentally swallowed whole—only to survive unharmed inside the creature's belly. His wife, Dáša, and journalist friend Pip Karen witness the absurdity firsthand, sparking a surreal chain of events as they navigate the bizarre situation. With its blend of whimsy and social satire, the film explores themes of bureaucracy, media sensationalism, and the absurdity of everyday life. Steklý's lighthearted yet clever direction infuses the story with a playful tone, making *Hroch* a delightful escape into the unexpected.
Audiences are treated to a mix of slapstick humor and sharp wit as the characters grapple with the consequences of Bedřich's predicament. The film's fantasy elements, from the talking hippo to the farcical dialogue, elevate it beyond a simple comedy, creating an atmosphere that's both charming and thought-provoking. Whether you're drawn to its unique premise or its nostalgic charm, *Hroch* (1973) stands out as a hidden gem of Czechoslovak cinema.