From Comenius’ native region, the filmmakers moved to a studio in Brno, where his study and the studio of the painter Rembrandt were established. It is the Dutch artist who is an important figure in the documentary. Comenius tells him his life story. “The two greats are looking for a way to each other through this scenario, they have a lot in common, various personal tragedies, losses. First there is a split between them, then a rapprochement and we can say about mutual enrichment, “explained the representative of Rembrandt Igor Bareš.
Comenius lived at a time when the Thirty Years’ War was plaguing Europe and a plague was spreading among the people. He had to deal with the deaths of two children and lost two wives. “When the name Comenius is mentioned, everyone is attacked by the Master of the Nations, and that is all. I wanted the audience to get to know his life, which was quite painful, even cruel, “said director Lubomír Hlavsa.
Starring Švehlík
Alois Švehlík took on the role of the aging Comenius, and his son David portrays the same personality at a younger age in the film. Milena Steinmasslová took on the role of third and last wife. “She was very selfless because she took care of his children from previous marriages. She also had to be hardworking, she also had to be very intelligent, because she also reads and writes, and that says something about her, “the actress described her role.
The documentary is a co-production of Czech Television with Vista film. The creators are preparing it for the 350th anniversary of Comenius’ death. They are planning a premiere in Czech cinemas at the end of November, and it should appear on Czech Television screens in December.
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