While the most famous animation studio in the world has been trying to produce animated versions of its classic Disney cartoons in recent years, Czech creators have taken the opposite route. They took one of the most popular fairy tales here and made an animated version of it.
The new Proud Princess, which has been showing in theaters since Thursday, is very close to the original, unlike Disney’s foreign remakes. All the more, the question arises: isn’t it a rather pointless undertaking?
The creators, who also include respected animator Radek Beran as co-director and screenwriter, are trying to sell the popular classic to today’s young audience. The basis thus remains a simple story inspired by Božena Němcová’s fairy tale, which was made into a film in 1952 transferred Bořivoj Zeman.
The viewer sets out together with the young, handsome King Miroslav from the prosperous Sun Kingdom to the neighboring Midnight Kingdom, where singing is not allowed and conditions are generally unhappy. Here he waits to see if the king will be able to secretly transform Princess Krasomila from a talkative little girl into a kind human being.
For anyone who has seen the extremely bad poster of the new film, it will be a pleasant surprise that the Proud Princess is relatively successful in terms of animation and skillfully copies foreign models. Jokes and small emotions work, and even though the whole visually looks more modest in terms of details, the most important things are taken up. And since the script is relatively faithful to the original – from the title song to the well-known tales of the confused king from the Midnight Kingdom – the result sounds quite satisfactory. Just somewhat unnecessarily.
Foreign filmmakers at Disney usually try to come up with a slightly different story, to update old hits.
Princess Krasomila is accompanied by a cute but dull Bichon dog. | Photo: CinemArt
It usually doesn’t work out very well, perhaps because the original drawing had a certain lyrical quality to it, while the live-action or computer-animated versions can’t imitate or replace this poetics. And so pictures like Dumbo from 2019 completely renounced the original cartoon and wordless charm and, on the contrary, tried to copy everything almost literally. Which, despite the realistic animation, has turned out to be terrifying more than once, as in the case of the five-year-old Lion King.
The Czech creators do not have to worry about a similar problem, they are based on an animated fairy tale, and the animated novelty turned out quite well. But wherever they stick to the original, the new version always comes out a little worse. And where they try to innovate, it turns out either unconvincingly or disastrously.
Since the authors took Hollywood as a model, one of the heroes must necessarily have their slightly stubborn or comic sidekick who plays second fiddle and is only there to create fun. And so Princess Krasomila, whom Miroslav is trying to rid of her pride, is accompanied by a cute, but completely manipulable and blunt Bichon dog. However, his actions generate enough gags that a small audience can easily appreciate it.
Be that as it may, one would put up with a Bichon, but one thing that does not make sense at all is music. For a fairy tale built around a famous song Grow up bud it’s really surprising when in the new version this famous song is complemented by completely horrible songs.
When it comes to a project that has essentially been in the making for years, was it not possible to hire someone who would devote more than two evenings to the lyrics and melodies in addition to the animators? Of course, you can’t ask Ondřej Gregor Brzobohatý to miraculously become František Hrubín, the author of the original text. But did he have to create songs that hurt and sabotage the original poetics?
When compared to the original, the new Proud Princess can never come out victorious. | Photo: CinemArt
It was precisely because of this inconsistency that the new Proud Princess turned out half-hearted at best. After every hilarious scene, he manages to get angry with similar force.
First of all, it is sold out in many places. Why is the new gardener in disguise ridding the fountain at the castle of a dried root, while all around there are bushes perfectly modeled in the shape of the faces of the local councilors? This strangely video game aesthetic, in which you only need to swipe once and everything suddenly lights up, is especially tacky.
In the moments when the film tries to be action-oriented, which succeeds in some places, the filmmakers don’t bother much with space-time and logic. As the fleeing heroes build a fire several times and lie down to sleep, they soon cover the same distance back and forth in a matter of seconds.
The proud princess stood at the very beginning of the huge popularity of domestic film and television fairy tales. Today’s production, on the other hand, often gives rise to doubts as to whether it is not a somewhat outdated genre.
On the one hand, the animated remake surpasses many contemporary animated fairy tales, as the classic and universal message transcends generations. But this happens rather despite my efforts to give the story a more modern guise.
Czech animation is on the rise today. Short-length works are repeatedly promoted at the world’s most prestigious festivals, such as the one in Annecy, France. And domestic feature-length projects have also been scoring there lately, most recently this year the film Život k zžrání took home the jury prize, which is also currently showing in cinemas.
While the latter confidently targets a teenage audience and is able to present the difficult topic of obesity and other difficulties associated with being in a school collective with insight and optimism, Pišná princezna is a product of a purely local character. And moreover one that can never come out victorious when compared to the original.
Film
A proud princess
Directed by: Radek Beran and David Lisý
CinemArt, in theaters from November 7.
The Proud Princess: A Summer Comedy Tragedy
Greetings, fairytale fans and animation aficionados! Today we delve into the recent Czech endeavor, The Proud Princess, an animated retelling of a beloved classic. And honestly, while the world beats its war drums for Disney’s latest remakes, the Czechs are sipping their tea, taking a step back, and thinking, “Why not just lift the original story, sweeten it up a bit, and serve it fresh?”
Back to the Future – Or Should That Be Back to the Past?
Now, here’s the crux of the matter – in a world where Disney is competing with itself to make fairy tales even more fantastical (and confusing), the Czech creators plump down firmly beside Božena Němcová’s Proud Princess from 1952 and attempt to slap on a fresh coat of paint. You got to give them credit for attempting to resurrect a classic instead of tossing it under the proverbial animated bus!
Sound the Alarms – The Bichon is Here!
Our dashing protagonist, King Miroslav, from the land of golden sunshine (why does that sound like a holiday brochure?), takes a buzz into the dismal Midnight Kingdom – a place where, as legend has it, nobody is allowed to sing. Thanks, guys, because what I really crave in my fairy tales is the blackened soul of dreariness. And who does he have dishing out the comic relief? A Bichon dog that seems as bright as a lightbulb without its wattage! Charming, yes, but not exactly the companion you’d want to lead the revolution against evil, right?
What Are Those Lyrics? Truly, What Are They?
And speaking of what you want, let’s talk about the soundtrack. Now, folks, if a fairy tale centers around a beloved song like “Grow Up Bud,” you’re expected to give it a loving, tender rendition. Instead, we’re met with tunes that’ll make your ears pull a Houdini! My advice to the composer? Less time staring at blank pages and more time absorbing the magic of what came before.
Animation vs. Animation: A Duel of Dreaded Distortions
Visually, the film scoots along the line of ‘adequate’ and ‘modestly charming’ – like that one friend who shows up to a party in slightly wrinkled clothes. It’s a good effort, but you can tell they’ve possibly borrowed some animation styles and had a light spat with details. Disney usually whips up a dazzling feast, while this feels more like a pre-packed lunch from a sad little cafe. The original’s poetic resonance? Oh, it’s there; it’s just playing hide-and-seek in a crowded friends’ gathering.
Half-Hearted or Half Funny?
Are we left with a film that strikes a chord, or merely mumbles through its lines? If you’ve been left with a mix of giggles and groans, you’re not alone! It’s a comedy that stumbles like a toddler learning to walk. For every hearty chuckle, there’s a plot point that defies the laws of logic. Yes, our heroes are traveling through space-time like they’ve taken a shortcut but forget to coordinate their timeline.
At the end of the day, The Proud Princess is a tribute to nostalgia wrapped in a package that doesn’t quite get it. It’s the type of film that is sure to flounder when stacked up against its predecessor, the original, which retains its splendor. As Czech animation flourishes and blooms like a well-watered plant in spring, one might ponder if small screen delight might be the way forward rather than resurrecting what once was.
Final Thoughts
So, will The Proud Princess cast its long, enchanting shadow over the hearts of the young and old alike, or will it fade into the annals of ‘what could have been’? The whimsical essence that wraps fairy tales in beauty seems slightly thin here – like wrapping a glorious symphony with a paperclip. But hey, never underestimate the power of nostalgia – it might just carry us along for the ride!
Catch it in theaters – if only to see how it stacks against the glimmering animated giants long gone or flickering alive today.
Czech creators have diverged from the trend set by the world’s most renowned animation studio, Disney, which has been producing animated adaptations of its classic cartoons in recent years. Instead, they have crafted an animated version of one of the most cherished fairy tales from their country.
The new film, Proud Princess, has been screening in theaters since Thursday and remains remarkably faithful to its original source material, contrasting sharply with Disney’s foreign remakes. This raises the pertinent question: does this project hold any real value?
The talented team behind this adaptation includes renowned animator Radek Beran, who serves as co-director and screenwriter. Their endeavor aims to introduce the beloved classic to today’s youth, retaining the charming simplicity of the story, which is inspired by Božena Němcová’s fairy tale, previously adapted into a film by Bořivoj Zeman in 1952 transferred.
The narrative unfolds as viewers accompany the dashing young King Miroslav from the prosperous Sun Kingdom on his adventure to the neighboring Midnight Kingdom—a land shrouded in sorrow where singing is strictly prohibited. Here, the tension builds as audiences wonder whether the king can clandestinely transform Princess Krasomila from her chatterbox, spoiled persona into a compassionate individual.
For those dismayed by the film’s subpar promotional poster, it will come as a pleasant surprise that Proud Princess exhibits commendable animation and adeptly emulates elements from successful foreign films. The humor and nuanced emotional moments resonate well, culminating in an aesthetically appealing experience, albeit one that lacks intricate detail. The adherence to the original script—including the iconic title song and the beloved tales of the befuddled king from Midnight Kingdom—offers a satisfying outcome, even if it feels a bit superfluous.
Creators in Hollywood, particularly at Disney, are known for their tendency to reimagine classic stories with contemporary spins.
The animated version of Proud Princess does not suffer from the pitfalls that plague some modern adaptations, thanks to its foundation in the original animated fairy tale. Yet, where the film sticks too closely to previous iterations, it often fails to shine, and its attempts at innovation may either fall flat or come across as forced.
Drawing inspiration from Hollywood tropes, the film introduces characters with a comedic sidekick dynamic; thus, Princess Krasomila is paired with a Bichon dog who, while adorably simplistic and easily manipulated, contributes enough comic relief to engage younger viewers.
Nevertheless, it’s perplexing that a fairy tale centered around the well-loved song Grow up bud features new songs that detract from the original’s charm. Given the years of development for this project, one would think that more attention could be devoted to crafting lyrics and melodies that honor the original spirit of the tale.
The mixed results of the new Proud Princess leave much to be desired. The film oscillates between moments of humor and frustration, embodying a hit-or-miss approach throughout.
The inconsistency of this adaptation becomes painfully apparent, especially considering how certain scenes, like the gardener’s odd act of cleaning a dried root from the fountain while nearby shrubs resembling local councilors’ faces abound, distract from the core narrative.
The film’s attempt to be action-packed sometimes falters, manifesting as a disregard for consistent timelines and logic. Moments arise when the protagonists conveniently reverse distances in seconds, undermining the stakes of their journey.
Proud Princess holds a special place in the history of Czech film and television fairy tales, having contributed to the rise of this beloved genre. Yet, modern productions often engender skepticism about whether fairy tales retain their relevance today.
While the animated remake offers some advantages over many current fairy tales due to its timeless message, it often undermines itself in its attempts to modernize the story.
Czech animation continues to thrive, with short films consistently featured at prestigious international festivals like Annecy in France. Recent feature-length projects also resonate with audiences, such as Život k žrání, which recently won the jury prize and is currently screening in cinemas.
In contrast, Proud Princess emerges as a distinctly local endeavor. Ultimately, it struggles to stand tall in comparison to its original iteration.
Film
A proud princess
Directed by: Radek Beran and David Lisý
CinemArt, in theaters from November 7.
E Proud Princess encapsulates a fascinating dichotomy in the animation landscape, juxtaposing its roots in Czech folklore against the modern backdrop of animated theatrical releases. This film, while undoubtedly affectionate in its homage to the original fairy tale, grapples with the significant challenge of resonating with a contemporary audience that may not traverse the same emotional paths as its predecessors.
### Embracing Nostalgia
The decision to stay true to Božena Němcová’s classic tale is admirable; it reflects a dedication to preserving cultural narratives. The film seeks to introduce these timeless themes of love, transformation, and the quest for understanding to a new generation. However, one must consider if merely reimagining a beloved story is sufficient to enchant today’s viewers who are accustomed to the flair and spectacle of modern animation.
### The Dueling Spirits of Animation
In an era defined by technological advancement and dynamic storytelling, the comparison to Disney’s often lush, detail-rich animations becomes inevitable. While the Czech adaptation possesses a certain charm, its visual storytelling falters when matched against the depth and finesse of its well-funded counterparts. This isn’t to diminish the creativity involved; it’s merely an acknowledgment of the disparities in resources and artistic direction.
### Musical Choices and Their Impact
The frustration around the film’s musical direction can’t go unaddressed. Songs are the lifeblood of fairy tales, often carrying the weight of emotion that visual elements cannot alone convey. The choice to introduce new compositions in place of the expected beloved melodies feels like a misstep, straying from the essence that defined the original. The nostalgia of “Grow Up Bud” would have benefitted immensely from a faithful interpretation, casting an enchanting spell rather than creating a dissonance that detracts from the film’s heart.
### Character Chemistry: The Dynamic Duo
One particularly engaging aspect is the relationship between Princess Krasomila and her Bichon companion. Though simple and whimsical, their dynamic taps into a universal appeal that resonates with younger viewers. By providing a dose of levity amid moments of seriousness, the film seeks to balance humor with life lessons — a common thread in many successful children’s narratives.
### Conclusion: A Step Towards Discovery
Ultimately, *The Proud Princess* serves as a delightful foray into the realms of nostalgia while also beckoning toward innovation. It holds intrinsic value in its mission to uphold Czech cultural heritage amidst a landscape dominated by global giants. Whether or not it achieves the ambitious goal of captivating modern audiences remains up for debate; however, it undeniably provides a unique cinematic experience that is a testament to the richness of its source material. The film may not achieve the grandeur of its predecessors, but it possesses an earnest charm and cultural significance that invites audiences to appreciate the beauty of storytelling in its many forms.
Curious viewers will likely find joy in the effort, leading to meaningful conversations about tradition and its place in an ever-evolving creative world. So, while perhaps not a landmark achievement, *The Proud Princess* adds another layer to the tapestry of fairy tale adaptations, relevant not just for its story content but for its cultural reflection in a visually changing world.
