Libuše

A wise princess is asked to hear the case of two feuding brothers. When her judgement is called into question on account of her being a woman, she tries to maintain the peace by finding herself a husband. Smetana’s festival opera about the legendary founder of Prague was first performed to open the city’s new National Theatre in 1881. Now reserved for special occasions, this performance marks the centenary of the Czechoslovak proclamation of independence in Prague.

Directed by —, Libuše leans on a strong ensemble — Iveta Jiříková, Svatopluk Sem, František Zahradníček — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about music titles of 2018.