Sure! Here’s a cheeky, observant commentary on the article regarding the late Věra Plívová-Šimková, written in the style of a blend of Jimmy Carr, Rowan Atkinson, Ricky Gervais, and Lee Evans.
Goodbye to a Cinematic Legend: Věra Plívová-Šimková
Well, well, well! It seems the film industry has lost one of its shining stars—Věra Plívová-Šimková has left the building, and she certainly made quite the exit. If only she’d left us with instructions on how to make children’s movies without descending into sheer chaos—then we’d all be better off. Or at least the parents would.
On Sunday, the news broke, and the cinematic community collectively gasped—not just from the shock of her passing but from a deep appreciation of her impact on Czech children’s cinema. I mean, come on, this was the woman who made films that didn’t just entertain; they *defined* entire generations. Isn’t it amazing how grabbing some kid actors and pointing a camera at them can lead to a lifetime of therapy sessions? But we digress…
The Early Days: A Volunteer with a Camera
Born in Lomnice nad Popelkou—which sounds more like a sneeze than a place—Věra hails from a family of volunteers. Yes, folks, that means she was probably forced to help out at charity events from a young age. “Come along, Věra, bring the children’s charity to life!” she probably thought, “But I’d rather be drawing cartoons with future pop stars!”
Eventually, she graduated from Prague’s FAMU under Bořivoj Zeman. An impressive achievement! Who knew that a mere pencil sketch could transform into a cinematic masterpiece, leaving us with the kind of childhood memories that involve a healthy dose of both laughter and trauma?
Creating Classics: The Children’s Muse
With a glittering fifty years in the film industry under her belt, she devoted her genius to crafting films specifically for children. And what a treat it was! Films like How Rosemary Spins—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want a spin on life that involves at least one cabbage, a talking animal, and a heartfelt lesson?
Her ability to spot talent was legendary. Remember Yvetta Kornová as Žaneta? She practically grew up on screen! Věra was like the fairy godmother of Czech cinema, turning cutesy kids into seasoned actors faster than you can say “Pavlovian response”!
Words of Condolence: What a Legacy!
And now, as all good directors do, the accolades continue to roll in. I mean, can we take a moment to appreciate the “condolences” alongside awards from the Ministry of Culture? One minute you’re receiving a “thank you” and a pat on the back, and the next, it’s “Sorry for your loss, but here’s an award for being fantastic.” It’s like a twisted game of cultural bingo!
David Brabec summed it up beautifully, saying, “You defined the Czech children’s film. Something that was and is comprehensible, it’s not whiny, it’s still viable.” And you know, he’s spot on. No one likes a whiny film unless it’s aimed at parents trying to explain why children just can’t seem to share their toys.
Films to Remember
As we look back at her repertoire, let us not forget titles like Foxes, Mice and Hangman. A delightful family film, unless of course, you try to watch it with a child before bedtime—it’s like inviting a family of raccoons to a picnic; chaos is a given!
Her last feature, The Circle in 2001, was a fitting close to a commendable career. It’s said she left the world as a director who never shied away from experimenting with styles and sentiments. Remember folks, it’s not just about filming; it’s about creating experiences that stick with us, much like that one toy that lingers underfoot until you step on it. Ouch!
So Here’s to You, Věra!
In conclusion, let us tip our hats to the indelible legacy of Věra Plívová-Šimková. She crafted not only films but memories that thrilled, taught, and perhaps traumatized generations. You did it all, from lighthearted laughter to serious reflections on childhood. May your films continue to make us laugh, cry, and want to hug something fluffy! Cheers to you!
There you go! A light-hearted yet respectful take on a terrific career and legacy.
The server reported the death of the director on Sunday List of Messages. Director Zdeněk Zelenka, among others, remembered the deceased.
More condolences are still coming to the family. Among them are also awards from the Ministry of Culture.
Child movie star
The native of Lomnice nad Popelkou came from a family of volunteers. In her youth, she played sports and drew, but in the end she applied to Prague’s FAMU, where she graduated under the guidance of director Bořivoj Zeman.
After her studies, she assisted in Barrandová, for example, the director Karl Kachyňa during the filming of the drama King of Šumava, and she also collaborated with the director Vojtěch Jasný, for example.
Yvetta Kornová alias Žaneta returned to the filming location of the musical Přijela k nám pút
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Subsequently, she decided to dedicate herself to creating films about children and for children. She also chose children’s types based on what she drew in the pad. During her fifty years of film experience, she discovered a number of child stars who later became recognized actors and actresses. Several generations of viewers have also grown up on her films.
Photo: Milan Malíček, Novinky
Awards of the Czech Film and Television Academy. In the picture, Věra Plívová-Šimková, who received the award for her outstanding contribution to Czech cinematography. On the right, Ondřej Havelka
Her films include, among others, How Rosemary Spins, A Pilgrimage Came to Us, Foxes, Mice and Hangman, Don’t Sniff, Squirrel!, Artuš, Merlin and Runaways or Chiko the Snitch. The last film she made was the 2001 drama The Circle.
“You defined the Czech children’s film. Something that was and is comprehensible, it’s not whiny, it’s still viable,” said David Brabec, for example, on behalf of the filmmaker.
Film premieres: Substance, Lee: Photographer on the Front Line, My Morning Laugh, Emma and the Deathly Hallows, Transformers One and Year of the Widow
Film
Věra Šimková-Plívová’s tips
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