Labdaálmok

The film, set in 1956, stars Gyula Káli, a young man from the countryside who moves to Budapest and sees only one opportunity for success: to become a ping-pong champion. His work and his private life are determined by a strict training schedule, which he refuses to interrupt even for the days of October. It is only as a champion in 1957 that he wonders: will his achievements make up for the sacrifices he has made to achieve his goal?

Directed by Imre Mihályfi, Labdaálmok leans on a strong ensemble — Ari Bery, Czinkóczi Zsuzsa, Róbert Koltai — 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 drama titles of 1989.