(1961)
3
Craig Butler
Baron Prasil is a charming and delectable piece of whimsy, albeit one with a fairly limited audience. While young viewers can certainly find much to enjoy, the film is not really geared toward the kiddy set; at the same time, many adults who enjoy fantastic adventures will find it a bit too gentle and sedate. But it is these very qualities that set it apart from so many other entries in the science fiction/fantasy genre, and its understated sensibility will be a big draw to those looking for something a little different in their adventure films. While Karel Zeman's screenplay is filled with delightful touches and succeeds in creating a tone that is both romantic and silly, it is Zeman's work as director and especially designer that is really impressive here. Working most often with scenes shot in either a china blue or sepia golden tone, Zeman creates a marvelous, beautiful, otherworldly atmosphere the very artificiality of which is a plus. Setting stop-motion animation, matte-process shots, and silhouettes (and, of course, live action) in some glorious Gustave Dore-inspired settings gives Prasil a unique look and a tremendously playful feel. Prasil's cast -- especially Milos Kopecky in the title role -- all fall into the spirit of the piece and add greatly to the fun (so much so that most will be willing to overlook the very poor English dubbing). Special mention should also be made of Zdenek Liska's flavorful score, which eschews the pomposity that often accompanies such projects in favor of a more playful tone. Prasil is not without its flaws -- such as its inevitable episodic nature -- but on the whole, it's an enchanting little curio.
Baron Prasil on AllMovie
Baron Prasil (1961)
